Dolphins giggled, penguins strutted and an elephant seal roared as Volunteer San Diego’s most dedicated gathered at Sea World San Diego to celebrate the success of the organization’s 2010 Serve-a-thon, a two day marathon of service to the San Diego community.

Volunteer San Diego at SeaWorld.

(For more event photos, go to: CAUSE.)

^{Photo by Cause for Celebration}

Volunteers were treated to Sunday brunch and a free day at the marine park in thanks for their heartfelt gifts of time and talent on behalf of others.

WHO CAME: Sea World’s Danielle Magee and Volunteer San Diego’s Sue Carter and Veronica Baker greeted the generous volunteer guests including Joe Padilla and Union Bank Foundation Officer, JR Raines. Past Volunteer San Diego Board President Bob Alden was there with Joanie Keegan. Kathi and Courtney Sanwo, Bill Sario, and Hal Kenety watched the celebration unfold alongside Dom Daly, escorting top fundraiser Aileen Daly. Sarah Adams, Casey DeLorme, Torrell Cloud and Shanly Hopkins were pleased to applaud the work of Serve-a-thon Committee Chair Samie Romanin who attended with Kevin Novak. Brad Burgess, Jennie McDonald and Sara Rodriguez as well as Steve Stoloff of Vavi Sport & Social Club San Diego lent their energy in support of the delightful thank-you brunch.

THE CAUSE: Volunteer San Diego creates lasting community impact by mobilizing volunteers, developing successful volunteer programs and promoting the power of community service. In 2009 Volunteer San Diego reached 300,000 people who are served by 700 organizations. To do it took the work of 62,000 volunteers placed by Volunteer San Diego. The 2010 two-day Serve-a-thon focused on educational needs. 833 volunteers completed 36 projects giving over 3,731 hours to support 25 schools and educational organizations.

THE CREATIVE: Bill Griffith emceed the recognition ceremony with his signature warmth, charm and humor while his grandson and namesake William applauded with encouragement from the front row. Bamboo Star Studios designed the expressive 2010 Serve-a-thon logo. Sea World provided the delicious brunch and jaunty beverage cart, readying guests for a day of marine adventure. Glass centerpieces held orchid strands, seashells and paper handprints with children’s observations about the benefits of volunteering.

THE GOOD HEARTED: Thoughtful Serva-a-thon sponsors included Home Depot, Teradata, Sea World, US Bank, HP, Mission Federal Credit Union, Cox Communications, San Diego Padres, Life Technologies Foundation, Nordson Asymtek, Mitchell, Leo Buscaglia Foundation and California Bank and Trust. Hardworking committee chair Samantha Romanin assembled a top notch organizing team including Honorary Chair Hal Clement, Cat Aquino, Sharon Lynn, Vickie Meeuwsen, Megan Mills, Michelle Panik, Lynne Pine, Courtney Sanwo and Steve Stoloff.

GET INVOLVED: You can vote now to help decide the focus the 2011 Serve-a-thon, but don’t wait until next year to make an impact. Volunteer San Diego can match you or your business with opportunities for service year-round. Visit the website to get started.

(For more photos, go to: CAUSE.)