Whippoorsnapper Award
The Whippoorsnapper Award was created in 2018 to recognize and encourage the contributions and Lake Rabun community volunteer efforts of a deserving young person. Fashioned after the Whippoorwill Award, which recognizes long-term volunteer service, the Whippoorsnapper Award gives credit to the next generation and its volunteer activity on the lake.
Be it lake clean-up, event participation, water safety, technical skills, recruitment, or committee work, a Whippoorsnapper personifies the spirit of giving and character of an up-and-coming member and potentially a future Whippoorwill. This award shines a light on and gives credit to our many young people who will carry the torch for the future of the Lake Rabun Association.
Criteria
- An individual who is an ambassador for promoting the mission statement and goals of the LRA.
- An individual who steps up willingly to facilitate efforts by the LRA and has volunteered or assisted with multiple events or committees for at least two years.
- An individual who exhibits character, willingness, and energy and displays positive role modeling for others in his/her peer group.
- An individual who is a problem solver and communicates ideas thoughtfully.
The Whippoorsnapper Award is announced at Labor Day member meetings, although it may not be awarded yearly.
Any LRA member can nominate an eligible member for the Whippoorsnapper by completing the nomination form and submitting it to Mike Swink by email or mail no later than August 1st, as noted on the form.
NOMINATION FORM (Microsoft Word)
NOMINATION FORM (PDF)
2024 WHIPPOORSNAPPER AWARD RECIPIENT
Mary Turner Troutman
The Whippoorsnapper Award gives credit to the next generation. The Whippoorsnapper Award shines light on and gives credit to the people that will carry the torch for the future of our organization.
Mary Turner Troutman is described as faithful and dedicated with a smile that radiates warmth and positivity who brightens the lives of those around her. Her non-judgmental nature makes her a cherished friend to many who is always ready to encourage, listen, and uplift. Growing up on Lake Rabun , she spent her summers swimming and skiing. Her family even had an understood rule of “No going to Hall’s or tubing until you’ve skied first.” In fact, her love of skiing led her to become a proud member of the UGA ski team in college. Her love for the lake and its community was evident in her younger years, where she eagerly participated in LRA Youth Nights, Bingo games, and buck dancing, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Furthermore, she has contributed her time and energy volunteering for the Tour of Homes, the Rabun Ramble, and our most recent Local Artists on the Lake fundraiser. In addition, she has been involved with the Scholarship Connections Program, mentoring a college student with kindness and insight. She currently serves as a member of the LRA Board of Trustees, and as shared by a former Trustee, she continues to serve the community with grace, particularly in her role as the Social Media Chair. Her efforts ensure everyone stays informed and connected, always with the most up-to-date information.
For Mary Turner Troutman, giving back is not just a duty but a natural expression of gratitude for the countless special memories Lake Rabun has given her. Her dedication to the community is a testament to her character, which will be remembered and appreciated now and with future generations.
Congratulations, Mary Turner Troutman!
PAST RECIPIENTS
| Year | Recipients |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Mary Turner Troutman |
| 2023 | Hannah Salwen |
| 2019 | Emily Thompson |
| 2018 | Forrest Kennedy |
