We are very pleased to announce that Orion CEO Rebecca Thomley has been announced as the recipient of an Eleven Who Care award. Dr. Thomley is being recognized for her work with the Headwaters Relief Organization, a non-profit she founded in 2006 to help victims of disaster. Dr. Thomley was inspired to create the organization after her experience as a first responder in the Ninth Ward after Hurricane Katrina. The Eleven Who Care award is presented locally by the NBC affiliate KARE TV to individuals in Minnesota making a difference in their communities.

“As a child, my mother taught me the value of helping others. As a psychologist and business leader, I know that volunteering nourishes both those we help, and the individuals and organizations that provide assistance,” said Dr. Thomley. “I’m proud of the work our more than 800 volunteers do at Headwaters, and I’m proud of Orion Associates’ record of volunteerism as well. I share this recognition with all the volunteers and employees I’ve had the pleasure of working with  over the past several years.”

”Dr. Rebecca Thomley exemplifies leadership that serves and inspires a passion for service by volunteers. As a Red Cross trauma volunteer, Dr. Thomley was one of the first people to enter the Ninth Ward of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina,” wrote Program Administrator Mary Anderson in her nomination. “Dr. Thomley established the Headwaters Relief Organization, a non-profit whose mission is to provide disaster relief. Today, Dr. Thomley and more than a thousand volunteers under her direction have made a difference after disasters all over the United States.”

Since its inception in 1983, Eleven Who Care has introduced the community to 300+ individuals making a difference in their community. This year’s group of honorees serves a wide range of organizations, each one helping to make their community a better place to live. In addition to sharing inspiring stories, this year Eleven Who Care will incorporate specific opportunities for community members to get involved in volunteer opportunities. Community members throughout the year submit nominations for the Eleven Who Care award. Eleven Who Care is presented in partnership with KARE11 and 3M.