Louise H. Rooney of Herndon received the 2009 Barbara Varon Award for her service as a volunteer in the Fairfax community.

“I was completely surprised,” Rooney said. “I knew I was there to get an award but had no idea out of all the volunteers, I would get this award.”

The award honors the memory of Barbara Varon, former chairman of the Fairfax County Electoral Board and is presented annually to a Fairfax County resident dedicated “to improving the community through volunteer service.”

The Barbara Varon Volunteer Award nominees must live in Fairfax County and show an appreciation for the diversity of the community’s population, exhibit patriotism and have a positive effect on the community.

“I have been volunteering in the community for so many years,” said Rooney. “I try to encourage everyone to get out and volunteer within their communities. It’s how we make a positive difference.”

Rooney has served as a volunteer with community organizations that provide a variety of services — the Herndon Fortnightly Club, the Herndon Fortnightly Library, the Closet, a local ESOL program, the Jeannie Schmidt Free Clinic, Reston Hospital, Herndon United Methodist Church and the National Association of Retired Federal Employees.

“It is an honor to think that someone nominated me thinking that I deserved the award,” Rooney said. “I wish I knew, so I can thank them”

Barbara Varon, a native of Germany, immigrated to the United States as an adult. She worked as a translator. After she joined the Fairfax County Office of the General Registrar, she committed herself to a voter outreach program to high school students. Appointed to the Fairfax County Electoral Board, she served as vice chairman and chairman. She fought for the rights and privileges of all citizens to participate in the electoral process.

The Board of Supervisors has memorialized her accomplishments through the Barbara Varon Volunteer Award to recognize volunteer efforts enriching Fairfax County.

— Susan Nelson