Gross honored by Noon Exchange

By DUANE SHERRILL / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Pam Gross, left, accepts the Humanitarian of the Year award from Noon Exchange member Shirley Durham Monday evening. Gross was cited for her unassuming service to the community. (Duane Sherrill photo)

Citing her many selfless contributions to individuals and the community, the McMinnville Noon Exchange Club awarded “Humanitarian of the Year” to Pam Gross Monday evening.

“As Jesus said, ‘by their fruits you will know them.’ In this case the fruit is pure love and self-sacrificing service,” said Exchangite Shirley Durham in conferring the award. “In both word and example, she testifies to her Christian faith and her sincere concern for others.”

The Humanitarian Award is given each year by Noon Exchange to recognize a person who has quietly worked to help others. The award was designed to cite persons who might otherwise never be recognized for their achievements in public service.

In the case of Gross, the achievement list was long. Among her works is in the role of youth guidance activist where she was a pioneer in citizens’ initiatives to fight illegal drugs. She was a member of the Drug-Free Tennessee program and helped carry the anti-drug message into local schools, presenting musicals and dramas underscoring the dangers of drugs.

She has also been active in the adult education program, teaching female inmates at the jail to prepare them for the GED program. She also helps dysfunctional families by teaching parenting skills classes and counseling abused women and children. She is a member of the board of directors for Families in Crisis. She conducts weekly counseling sessions for teens who have problems with drugs and alcohol, which is an initiative associated with Lighthouse Ministries on Sparta Street.

She is a professional, licensed counselor and has donated much of her time to helping young people from troubled homes.

“In spite of negative pressures and challenges in contemporary society, she remains optimistic and hopeful about the future of our young people and our nation, where many of these young citizens will be taking positions of responsibility and leadership,” Durham said. “It is not surprising she stays up around the clock to help each year with preparations for Project Graduation, contributing not only her labor but also her personal funds to assure an enjoyable experience for graduating seniors.”

In addition to her help of youth and in education of adults, Gross also aides seniors in her participation with the Meals on Wheels program and her assistance with Habitat for Humanity.

Gross is active in her church, where she is a pianist and singer and has worked and foreign missions. She is a volunteer in organizing and directing Bible school programs.

Gross, who was in tears in accepting the award, was humbled by the honor.

“I am so undeserving,” Gross said.