JACKSON – Vic Grettum of Henrico has received the North Carolina Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service.

&uot;Volunteers are at the heart of the long-standing tradition of community service in our state,&uot; Governor Michael F. Easley wrote. &uot;You work enriches and improves the lives of others every day in countless ways. You serve as a positive role model who makes a difference in the lives of others.&uot;

Grettum was recognized Monday for his award during a meeting of the Northampton County Commissioners.

&uot;At the Gaston College Preparatory School, Vic wears many hats,&uot; Office on Aging Director Debby Warren said. &uot;Most notably, he mentors and tutors a young student who was not performing to grade level and, at third grade, had been declared unteachable.&uot;

Warren said that through Grettum’s hard work and diligence, the student now comprehends at his seventh grade level.

&uot;Another of Vic’s volunteer efforts is working with Habitat for Humanity helping families realize the satisfaction of owning a home of their own,&uot; Warren added. &uot;Vic enjoys working in those areas that are the most needy within the community. He is making a difference.&uot;

Commission Chairwoman Virginia D. Spruill (D-2nd) congratulated Grettum on his award and officially presented the certificate and pin.

&uot;The Gaston College Preparatory School is the most exciting project I have ever been involved with in my life,&uot; Grettum said. &uot;It is the first and only rural charter school in the system.

&uot;It is just a joy for me to go there,&uot; he added.

Grettum also said he enjoyed the work he had done with Habitat for Humanity and that he was very proud of the project.