Recognition of Local Heroes, November 3, 2009 Max M. Fischer Music Center

In recognition of their dedication to serving Metro Detroit neighborhoods, each Local Hero will have the opportunity to direct a $5,000 grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation to an eligible nonprofit organization of their choice. Virginia, or Ms. Dee, has provided
thousands of hours of service to the
community, staff, and persons served
by Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit.

Her story: Weaving her way through the training centers at Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroits Grand River Avenue headquarters, 81-year-old volunteer Virginia Deozletian of Dearborn maneuvers a mail cart almost half her size through the familiar halls three days a week. Deozletian, known by employees and clients of Goodwill as Ms. Dee, has been a staple to the Detroit nonprofit for more than 42 years. My first day of training was September 22, 1967. I didnt like the path my life was heading down, so I toured two other retraining facilities before visiting this very same building, explained the pint-sized lady with trademark sunset red hair. When I walked in, I automatically liked it here. Something told me walking into this building was my destiny. Ms. Dee went through every facet of training available to Goodwill clients at the time, dabbling into disciplines ranging from gasket production for automobile suppliers to cashiering a local grocery store, but found her true passion sorting and stamping mail. After cycling through different jobs, Ms. Dee settled into a fulltime volunteer position with Goodwill in the early 70s. Since taking reins as Goodwill Industries most seasoned volunteer, shes watched fellow trainees retire from successful careers, worked with all five presidents of the organization and has had two retirement parties thrown in her honor, but Im still here. I will not retire and I told them that at the last party. I love being here with the people. In 2001, Ms. Dee downsized her weekly volunteering hours and now receives a ride to the office from a Goodwill colleague. She decorates her workspace every major holiday, and serves as the friendly face to those visiting her wing. She calls Goodwill her family and stays because I really appreciate their concept of bringing in an individual and showing them they can really make a decent person out of themselves. (less info)