The Extra Milers: Russ Denison Sr.

By Carol Dawson
Local Columnist

March 04, 2007 08:50 pm

— “The best place to find a helping hand is at the end of your own arm.” — Swedish proverb
• • •
Some people get hit by an earth-shattering wake up call that propels them into the life of an Extra Miler for a particular charity or cause. Others seem to come by the title as a birthright.
Our Southern Indiana Extra Miler this month believes he fits into the second category.
Russ Denison Sr. feels he was born to assist those who are less fortunate and in need of a helping hand. Russ gives of his time, talents and finances without reservation and without need for attention. He is a humble man who has gained the respect of all who know him.
Russ’ son, Rusty Denison, describes his father as a man “motivated by his loving and caring nature and his desire to remain active with his friends and community.” As it is so often with our Extra Milers, Rusty explains that his father is deeply rooted in his faith.
“The most important lesson I have learned from him is that having a positive Christian attitude and working hard will pay off in life,” the younger Denison said.
Russ Denison began volunteering his time with the “Helping Hands” ministry of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in New Albany more than 50 years ago when it was located in the current Tribune building.
His involvement in the program began with a simple “paper drive,” hosted by the church and the Boy Scouts. The project — funded through individual donations from the congregation — progressed through different phases, but the focus was always to provide a “Helping Hand” to individuals in need who find their way into our community. Russ stayed with the program throughout each transition.
W.A. Amerson has been friends with Russ for more than 60 years.
“Russ loves people — all people. He helps with everything he has — his hands, his feet, his heart.” W.A. adds, “This man is a dynamic and faithful servant of God … and an all-around wonderful person.”
I spoke with Russ and asked him what motivates his volunteer efforts and he quickly responded, “It is the way God made me. Because of that, it is a pure joy to work with the Helping Hands Ministry.”
Russ provided details of the program, indicating they often come to the aid of people just passing through our community.
I asked Russ how these individuals find out about Helping Hands and he explained, “The business community typically refers people in need, but even I am sometimes surprised at the route some take to find us. Many people are referred through motels and hotels, but we also have a lot of local folks who need a little assistance now and then.”
I asked Russ what he would say to someone who might believe that volunteering is a waste of time. He didn’t miss a beat with his response, “I can’t even imagine someone saying something like that … volunteering for others helps the entire community. The benefits far outweigh the time or support you give.”
In the past five to six years, the Helping Hands charity of Wesley Chapel has given more than $151,000 in aid. Russ Denison has been an integral part of that effort since 1950 and he has no intention of stopping any time soon. There is no doubt he has always known what was at the end of his outstretched arms — open and loving helping hands.
KINDNESS TIP OF THE MONTH: There are many simple ways to show kindness. Little things, that cost you nothing, can make an amazing difference in another person’s life. Make up small business cards that say, “Thank You For Your Kindness. It was sincerely appreciated.” Add a meaningful quote. Leave the card with anyone who has done something nice, i.e., a waiter/waitress who has been especially friendly or efficient (don’t forget the tip), a coach who takes extra time to help a struggling player, a cashier who always greets you with a smile and words of appreciation, or send it with your child to a teacher who has gone the Extra Mile. If you don’t have access to cards and a printer, I would be happy to mail you some cards. Send your name and address to the e-mail or address below.
Carol A. Dawson is a resident of Jeffersonville and president of EEO GUIDANCE Inc. If you have seen or been a part of an act of kindness or know an extra miler, let us know about it. To submit a story or act of kindness, contact Carol via e-mail: Extra.Milers@newsandtribune.com or send mail to: The Extra Milers, The Evening News, 221 Spring St., Jeffersonville, IN, 47130-3340.

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