Published: April 08, 2009 02:34 pm      

Barrientos is a fan of people

Lorraine Shannon, director of public information of the West Orange-Cove Consolidated Independent School District, is no stranger to the kindheartedness of people. She sees it almost everyday in her school district as she works with many volunteers who donate their time to help the children of the district.

Shannon nominated Tony Barrientos as an Unsung Hero for how much time he truly spends or gives of himself to help others, whether it is children of the school district or one his many other endeavors.

“Anytime Tony becomes aware of an opportunity to help, he does,” Shannon said. “Recently, he volunteered to work long hours on many different days, including a Saturday, at my workplace to help prepare and distribute Nike products to our students.”

Barrientos is also known for his other acts of generosity. He is a member of the Civic Advisory Council for LifeShare Blood Center and a regular donor who schedules his donations so he can give as often as possible.

He is also an advocate for the National Bone Marrow Registry and regularly presents information to students at Lamar State College-Orange on the importance of becoming a bone marrow donor.

Barrientos also does his part in the battle against cancer. He is a member of Trace’s Trailwalkers, an Orange County Relay for Life team, and has participated in numerous all night fundraisers for the American Cancer Society.

“I just like to help people,” Barrientos said. “I try to make the time, whether I have to come in early to work or stay late. I just find time and do it.”

Barrientos said he is always busy with activities, including the upcoming Relay for Life and the Miracle Match for Life golf tournament, which will benefit the LifeShare Blood Center, National Bone Marrow Registry and Julie Rogers Gift of Life.

“A lot of people don’t realize how easy it is to sign up for the bone marrow registry,” Barrientos added. “They don’t even have to draw blood anymore. They just take four, large cotton swabs and rub them in your mouth and place them in a plastic baggie and you’re done. It’s that simple, and more people should do it.”