Kelly O’Connell, Holmes Murphy Operations Team Lead in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has received a Governor’s Volunteer Award for her extensive work with UnityPoint Health, among other notable community involvement initiatives. The Governor’s Volunteer Award honors the exemplary service and volunteerism of Iowans each year who make a significant impact in communities across the state.

For over 12 years, O’Connell has had a registered team with Pet Partners and has volunteered at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids through the Pet Pals Program, which uses specially trained dogs, cats, and their owners, to provide an opportunity for patients to benefit from animal interactions.

The event was also covered by KCRG-TV, if you’d like to learn more.