Denver --

This week marks the beginning of the tenth year of Channel 7’s stories of outstanding volunteers in our community. It was January of 1999 when the first story aired, and to mark the occasion, we revisit a hero that President Bush recognized, and introduce you to another hero of Olympic stature.

On his most recent stop in Denver, President Bush met Littleton’s Cherie Yager. He presented her with the “President’s Volunteer Service Award”. We first met Cherie in 2002 at the Stout Street Clinic where she volunteers. After 25 years as an optician, Cherie quit so she could give her time at this clinic which provides eye care for the homeless.

Special Olympics Colorado also touches thousands of lives. With 22 sports year round and more than 100 competitions across the state each year, it’s no wonder so many people benefit. It also requires a lot of volunteers – people like Kathi Christ. Kathi’s co-workers and family gathered recently at the Littleton Police Department, where she worked as the dispatch supervisor. Even while battling cancer, Kathi encouraged the entire Littleton Police Department and SWAT team to help Special Olympics. Kathi lost her battle with cancer in 2007, but not before volunteering countless hours for Special Olympics.

There is no better way to celebrate the start of our 10th year of 7Everyday Heroes than to honor these two outstanding volunte