Specialized Needs Recreation of Coeur d'Alene won the Organization category on Wednesday during the 11th annual Governor's Brightest Star awards ceremony at the Egyptian Theatre in Boise.

Sixty-nine volunteers from throughout Idaho were honored by Gov. Butch Otter and first lady Lori Otter.

"Volunteers are ever more important and valued as part of the foundation of recovery in our state and the nation," Otter said.

SNR offers recreation programs for individuals with special needs in North Idaho. The nonprofit's 200 volunteers include more than 50 teens who serve as mentors, advocates and role models.

Local residents nominated for awards included:

* Michael Beckett, Coeur d'Alene, individual, a disc jockey and emcee who helps with fundraising events,

* Davis Hill, Dalton Gardens, student, a volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho ReStore,

* Andy Bershad, Coeur d'Alene, senior, a volunteer counselor for 17 years,

* Pat Connell, Hayden, senior, a volunteer with her church, Hospice and other organizations,

* Burton Lillis, Dalton Gardens, senior, a volunteer at his church and with veterans efforts,

* James Polzin, Blanchard, senior, the head of the Building and Maintenance Commission of St. Pius X Church,

* Lesley Schoch, Coeur d'Alene, senior, president of the Panhandle Autism Society,

* Jeri Slocumb, Coeur d'Alene, senior, a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity,

* Wayne Syth, Hayden, Senior, a volunteer at multiple veterans organizations.