Suffolk Family YMCA employee Donna Franklin was a little nervous about getting up in front of 600 people last week to accept an award for her volunteerism with children.

But she had no qualms about popping on a red nose and clown makeup for the Suffolk YMCA’s Halloween festivities last year.

Or dressing up as an elf for a Christmas party or baking dozens of cookies for the organization’s Healthy Kids event last year.

It’s those volunteer activities — as well as her daily interaction with children while at work — that earned Franklin the organization’s annual Service to Youth Award, said Sarah Crouch, health and fitness director at the Suffolk Family YMCA.

Each branch of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads gives out an award recognizing a YMCA member or community member for their volunteer work with children, Crouch said. It’s never gone to an employee in the past, she said.

“It goes to a person who volunteers and gives back to our children,” said Crouch. “The reality is that Donna did more this past year outside of her work hours.

“She always does extra and goes above and beyond. She embodies the spirit of volunteerism.”

Franklin, 37, a trainer at the Suffolk YMCA, said she was surprised by the award. Although she and other Hampton Roads winners were recognized regionally last week, her colleagues told her about the honor during Suffolk’s Christmas party.

“My jaw dropped,” she said. “It is one of the highlights of my life, right up there with marriage and having kids.

“It makes me feel appreciated.”

Franklin said loves working with children and that she considers volunteering an extension of her Christian faith.

“I like helping people and feeling like I am making a difference,” Franklin said. “I’m just trying to follow Jesus’ example.”