Cedar Rapids Man Recognized by White House for Volunteer Work

By Justin Foss, Reporter

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By Justin Foss

Story Created: Mar 2, 2010 at 6:35 PM CST

Story Updated: Mar 2, 2010 at 6:35 PM CST

CEDAR RAPIDS – Doug Bramow is technically retired, but that only means the work he’s doing now doesn’t come with a paycheck.

Since November of 2008, Bramow, 55, Cedar Rapids, has helped Americorps Vista workers learn carpentry skills. This week, he’s working with a small group on a flooded home in the Time Check neighborhood.

"These aren't your ordinary everyday people,” said Bramow as he talked about the caliber of workers through the Americorps Vista program. “These are people that have come from clear across the United States to do something that matters."

Tuesday, Bramow received the President’s Volunteer Service Award, issued on behalf of the President of the United States to recognize Americans for improving their communities through volunteer service. Jackie Norris with the Corporation for National Community Service gave him the award during a ceremony at the Community Recovery Center, 220 Sixth St. NW.

Drew Riemersma, 19, came from Idaho eight months ago to work with Americorps Vista. He’s worked with Bramow for two months.

"He has that attitude that you just want to learn from him. Even if it’s not carpentry, you just want to learn from him,” said Riemersma.

Bramow said the learning goes both ways.

"I've come to realize that our world isn't at a loss, but there really are people out there who do care."

Of course, Bramow got the President's award because he cares, and because he keeps on showing it. And he challenges others to do the same.

"Everybody has a family. Everybody has things to do. Everybody has others things that need to be done,” said Bramow. “Personally, in my mind, it’s a priority issue; you make time for whatever you feel is important."

Bramow's volunteering extends beyond the flood. Last month he started a new Boy Scout Troop for boys with special needs.

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