UVM Senior Harrison Keyes has been presented with a Jim Hutchinson Volunteer of the Year Award from Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, the largest year-round disabled sports non-profit organization in Vermont. The award honors the exemplary volunteer efforts of outstanding individuals.

Keyes is president of the UVM Adaptive Sports Club. Under his leadership, student interest and commitment to the club has grown, exceeding Vermont Adaptive's expectations. He has rallied large groups of student volunteers to assist in daily lessons, special events and fundraisers. The pinnacle of Keyes' work came last season when he spear-headed a grant application to the Newman's Foundation on behalf of the UVM club and Vermont Adaptive. That effort led to a $10,000 award which is being used for sit down equipment as well as training.

Two other individuals are recipients of the 2012 award: Ross Almo, of Mendon, and Norm Staunton, of Colchester.

"These three volunteers exemplify what Jim Hutchinson stood for when it comes to being a volunteer," said Executive Director Erin Fernandez. "They tirelessly offered their time and talent to the organization throughout the year and all three truly stood apart with their willingness to learn and execute many aspects of our programs."

Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports promotes independence and furthers equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational opportunities including alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports; kayaking, canoeing, sailing, cycling, hiking, rock climbing, tennis, horseback riding, and more. More than 400 volunteers serve clients of all abilities with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities from all over the world in three locations in Vermont - Pico Mountain at Killington; Sugarbush Resort in Warren; and Bolton Valley Resort in Bolton. Summer programs are provided state-wide.