When asked what she is thankful for in 2010, Pauline Stamps of West Carrollton does not hesitate when she says, “being able to host my ‘special people’ party each year tops my list.”

Pauline is retired after close to two decades of working for the Montgomery County board that serves those with physical and mental challenges: Montgomery County Developmental Disabilities Services.

She carried her concern and care for those she worked for into her retirement life. After she became a widow, and for the past 27 consecutive years, she has hosted an annual dance party for clients of the developmental disabilities’ work shelters.

“I’ve always felt good throwing my annual party for my friends from the shelters who are challenged,” she said.

“The party has become a high point of many of their lives.”

With the support and cooperation of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3438 in West Carrollton, the party is held in the organization’s community room each year.

Stamps said there were only 30 guests when she first started and that there were 208 at her most recent party.

At its Ohio convention at the Dayton Marriott Hotel on June 25, Stamps was honored by the state VFW Auxiliary with its top community service award for her annual special people party.

“I thank God that I am still able to host the event and want to continue doing it as long as I am able,” she said.

Stamps said that local disc jockey Butch Brown provides the music for dancing, “and even those in wheel chairs get out on the floor and whirl around with the others. Everyone takes part, and they really let go and enjoy the evening.”

“There is always a kind of magic in the air and a certain excitement that I don’t see anywhere else,” she said.

Pauline is a life member of the West Carrollton VFW, 5441 Marina Drive, and throughout the years has been active in helping plan the annual Christmas party for the children of the post. And she supports all veteran events, and visits the patients at the VA Medical Center as often as she can.

“On Thanksgiving I am just so happy and thankful that I have been able to reach and do good things for others,” she said. “I firmly believe that you get back what you give in this world. Sometimes it is a kind smile and a hug. You can’t ask for better pay.”

Dale Huffman wants your suggestions and story ideas. He’d like to share a story about you, your family, or a friend. This column is for you. Send e-mail to dhuffman@DaytonDailyNews.com or write to Dale at 1611 S. Main St. Dayton, OH 45409. Fax: (937) 225-2489. Phone: (937) 225-2272.