Edwards, Lovell honored as top chamber volunteers

SANDPOINT — Dedication and service to the community have earned Susan Edwards and Jim Lovell honors as the month’s Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Month.

Edwards is the principal of the Head Start program in Sandpoint and her hard work has gained recognition and honors from all around the state. Lovell is an action-oriented chamber board member who takes on the difficult tasks when asked.

Although she is modest, chamber officials noted in presented the award to Edwards that her accomplishments are extensive. She received a master’s degree in early childhood development from Lesley University of Cambridge at 51 years of age.

She was nominated by the city of Sandpoint for the Brightest Star award for the state of Idaho. In 2003, she was received the award from Gov. Dirk Kempthorne. In 2011, Susan was nominated for Outstanding Service Award to the Community by the North Idaho College.

When she’s not accepting awards or being nominated, she keeps awfully busy with a variety of community activities. For many years, she was on the board for the Idaho Extension Services. She is currently an executive board member for Kaniksu Health Services.

Edwards has even participated and lent a hand as a volunteer for LEAP, Sandpoint Slam, Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Sandpoint Business Association.

Lovell is a hands-on leader who has taken the lead with the chamber’s renovation of the Sand Creek location. His actions and ability to bring the right people to the table will see this project completed in less than a year, chamber officials said.

“He’s a caring individual and has helped many families in need in our community,” chamber spokesman Mack Deibel said. “Also, Jim is on the affordable housing committee, giving less fortunate families a chance to own a home.”

When the Head Start Center needed funds, he organized a golf tournament to raise enough money to resurface their playground in less than a month. His efforts and care for the Head Start Center has seen him put a lot of effort in helping them including moving the fence so the children could ride their bikes in the parking lot.