The Helpline Center and MetaBank congratulate Mark Greeno on being named the January 2012 Volunteer of the Month. Mark was nominated for the award by the Outdoor Campus.

Mark is a charter volunteer of The Outdoor Campus and is passionate about the outdoors, education and volunteering. Mark has been with the Outdoor Campus for over 15 years and has given several thousand hours of his time to the organization. He assists with classes, and also teaches several classes including rock climbing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. He even helps develop Outdoor Campus curriculum.

Mark recently retired after 34 years as a teacher in Sioux Falls and has seemingly been even busier ever since. He works at the Great Outdoors Store, teaches rock climbing with Sylvan Rocks and works as an adjunct professor at Augustana College. Then, somehow, he’s able to squeeze in volunteering at Avera McKennan Fitness Center, The Outdoor Campus, The Teddy Bear Den and state parks.

Alison Eden, who nominated Mark for this award, said the following of him. “Mark is one of the kindest people I have ever met; he has the biggest heart when it comes to teaching and working with kids. Mark is a champion for the underdog. While volunteering to teach a skill or activity, Mark never gives up on a student. He patiently works with them until they understand and can successfully complete the activity. There is no doubt whatsoever that he loves what he does, and the positive feeling spreads to everyone around him.”

Mark is a valuable member of the Sioux Falls community; he is beloved by his former students who affectionately call him “Greeno”, whether they had him as a coach for Lincoln High track or if he first taught them how to jump rope at Oscar Howe Elementary.  As a volunteer Mark continues to leave a lasting impression on all of the people he works within the community.  Mark is simply a teacher who will never stop teaching, and one of the most valued members of the Outdoor Campus team.

The Helpline Center and MetaBank recently presented Mark with the award and a framed certificate, plus a letter of appreciation from Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether. He will also be honored at the Spirit of Volunteerism awards in May of 2012.