Sen. Claudia Kauffman has been given the Governor’s Award of Excellence for her years of volunteering and her dedication to public service.

“Volunteering has been an integral part of my life since I can remember,” Kauffman said. “It is part of who I am, and I think it makes me more effective in the legislature when I’m pushing for policy changes that will improve the lives of people around the state.”

Kauffman volunteered at a clothing bank as a child. As an adult, she has opened her home and heart to 10 foster children. Each year she organizes a dinner to honor veterans, helps educate people on civic engagement and sits on a number of boards and commissions. Some of those organizations include:

• Kent School District’s Indian Education Parent Committee;

• Kent Chamber of Commerce;

• First Place School;

• Thrive by Five Washington;

• Minority Executive Directors Coalition of King County and

• Native Action Network (co-founder).

Kauffman, D-Kent, received the award at a luncheon Sept. 25 and will use the honor to encourage others to get involved in their communities.

“It was an honor to receive the award,” Kauffman said. “But giving back to the community isn’t about receiving accolades. I do it because I care deeply about the people in this state and want to make a difference at the local and state level. I hope this award will encourage others to give back to their communities. Volunteer opportunities are endless.”