Warm Hearts-Willing Hands, a VISTA Program of Martin Volunteers/United Way, honored PinelakeVillage at a ceremony Oct. 5.

Certificates were presented to PinelakeVillage, a model community for the program, and Ellen McAnallen disaster coordinator for the community.

PinelakeVillage owner Carol McCarthy was recognized for her support in preparing the community for the next disaster.

McAnallen, a long time supporter of the American Red Cross, registered special need residents, created a disaster and evacuation plan, and implemented it, while educating residents before Warm Heart - Willing Hands entered PinelakeVillage. Twenty-five block captains also received certificates from McAnallen for helping make their community safe.

McAnallen has allowed Warm Hearts-Willing Hands to use her disaster plan as a model for other communities participating in the project.

In attendance were Jim Vojcsik, executive director for United Way for MartinCounty; Walter Sawyer, VISTA Coordinator for Warm Hearts - Willing Hands, who presented the VISTA/Martin Volunteers certificates; Ellen McAnallen; Carol Griffin, representing the owner; and 25 block captains.