NEWPORT — Newport resident Diane Peel was awarded a Governor’s Award for Outstanding Community Service last week. She was honored for her work with the 99 Gallery and Community Center.
Peel manages to run the 99 in addition to her full-time job as a nurse working nights.
The space is a drop-in center providing free internet access, free fresh food from a local farm, book and CD lending, free movies, a writing group, art classes, children’s activities, and a monthly community newsletter.
She also recruits volunteers for the organization, organizes civic activities, and seeks out resources to help those in her community who are struggling.
“We are only a small group of people with a small space,” Peel said. “Imagine a larger indoor public space in Newport free to all, where all kinds of people could mingle, share ideas and skills, and help one another.”
Four “team” members of The 99 accompanied her last Friday to an award ceremony held at the State House. She says that the project is truly a group effort.
“Peel’s service to the community has made a tremendous difference to the people she serves,” a statement issued by Governor Shumlin’s office read. “The Governor was impressed at the level to which she advocates and provides for the disenfranchised, homeless, elderly, and poor.”
