Cancer Society honors volunteer at brunch

The goal of the event is to raise money and increase awareness of cancer, said Tressa Nicewarner, board president.

"It is a way to put a positive on a negative," she said.

The board of directors decided to honor Davis this year because of all of her volunteerism, including serving as the daffodil chairwoman for 17 years, said Jim Shifler, event chairman and board member. Davis is in charge of purchasing, sorting, distributing and delivering the flowers sold for the annual Daffodil Days fund-raiser.

Davis, who sat with her family at the front of the ballroom, was modest about the honor.

"I am proud and honored but I don't do my volunteer work to be honored," she said. Davis, who owns Basketful of Gifts on Potomac Avenue, has been on the unit's board for 17 years, including serving as president and vice president.

"Whenever they need two hands, I do it," she said. Asked why she chose to help this particular cause, she said she just knew they needed help, so she provides it.

"She is always available," Shifler said.

Shifler started the event after noticing that his family and many others would go out to eat after church on Sundays. He thought it would be a good idea to host an event where people could eat together and raise money for a good cause.

More people have come each year and for many it is a reunion of sorts, as they get reacquainted with friends they do not see the rest of the year, he said.