Seven years ago, Bruce Robinson accidentally stepped off a two-story roof, and shattered the bones in both of his feet. His job as a construction supervisor was over.
Robinson could either take a desk job or move onto something else. Robinson opted to move on, finding himself behind the wheel of a school bus.
A typical day for Robinson begins at 5 a.m., when, decked out in a brightly colored shirt and Mickey Mouse watch, he drives through the Valley, taking special needs children to school. For kids who have it a bit rough, Robinson is someone who can be trusted.
On Tuesday, June 4, Robinson, along with 32 other volunteers, was recognized for service during the 17th Annual Rise and Shine volunteer breakfast.
Each year, locals who have helped support healthy children and families in the Snoqualmie Valley are nominated by community members and recognized by the Snoqualmie Valley Community Network.
“This is where the rubber meets the road,” said Snoqualmie Mayor Matt Larson, a guest at the breakfast. He affirmed the efforts of volunteers, neighbors and friends who make a difference for young people.
Receiving awards were Brent Cook, Brian Pattinson, Cindy Spence, the Chief Kanim Library volunteer team, the Community Meals team, Dave Kramer, Deanna Neil, Dennis Simmons, Dick Monroe, Duvall Farmers Market volunteers, Fiona Bryant, Helen Hoeing, John Downing, Katherine Ross, Keomany Riley, Kerry Anderson, Kianna Hales, Kim Klingenberg, Kylie Leslie, Nancy Akers, Project 15, Rick Arons, the Snoqualmie Valley Winter Shelter leadership team, Tabitha Dorn, John Belcher, Kim Stonebraker, Peggy McNamaea, Leif Henrikson and Brittany Fenchette.
Robinson’s award
“I was really honored by the award,” said Robinson. “It was really great to see all these people doing their thing,”
“He has demonstrated ability to make special connections with children who have special needs,” said Kim Kanzler, who nominated Robinson. “Bruce- as with all the volunteers awarded at the breakfast, they give their time and expect nothing in return.”
In addition to working as a school bus driver, Robinson coordinates the Watch D.O.G.S. program at Snoqualmie Elementary School and volunteers at Encompass Northwest as well as the Rest Stop program at Cascade Covenant Church.
Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) gets dads involved in their child’s elementary school. Robinson believes it is important for children to have male influences in their education.
The Rest Stop program is designed to give the parents of special needs children a night off.
• Learn more about Community Network efforts at snoqualmievalleycommunitynetwork.org.
