When asked to describe his volunteer activities in Pullman, Tim Marsh promptly responded with an e-mail listing his service with 26 community groups, from the Comets Track Club and Pullman High School Boosters to Pullman United Way and the National Lentil Festival.
His listing indicates not only the amazing depth of his volunteer commitment, but also the thoroughness with which he completes his tasks.
That commitment and thoroughness are what earned Marsh, an assistant director of WSU University Relations, the 2007 Washington Festivals and Events Volunteer of the Year Award. Marsh, who has served on the Lentil Festival executive committee since its founding in 1989, was honored specifically for his service to the festival.
“I just try to be of assistance,” Marsh said. “I get a lot of satisfaction helping people in our community.”
That help often includes showcasing local groups by working with area media and providing creative marketing ideas. For example, he is credited with renaming the street that connects Pullman to the Reaney Park Lentil Festival site “Lentil Lane.”
In addition, he regularly brings his camera to community events and then posts the digital photos for all to use.
For this article, however, Marsh is on the other side of the camera lens. The focus is on his volunteer commitment. But he’s more comfortable avoiding the spotlight.
“I have most enjoyed being behind the scenes, supporting those who are in the limelight,” he said.
