12/15/25 – Over the past few years, Mr. Garman Troup has worked with Granville County Senior Services to lead its ramp building program. Garman handles most of the planning and prep work by himself. This includes meeting with the client, creating a materials list, receiving material deliveries at the home, pre-cutting pieces for assembly, and recruiting a volunteer construction crew. On the build date, volunteers arrive at the home and assemble the ramp. In 2024, Garman and his “crew” built 21 ramps. In addition to ramp construction, he carries a weekly route for Senior Services’ home delivered meal program. In the summer, Garman shares fresh fruit and vegetables grown in his home garden with the seniors. His calm and friendly manner has brought many smiles to homebound seniors. 

12/15/25 – Over the years, Catherine George has fulfilled many different roles at Diaper Train, the only diaper bank exclusively serving Wake County. From 2018 to 2024, she served on the board as the President, Vice President, and Program Committee Chair. She has counted and packed thousands of diapers and wipes as they are donated and go out the door to families. Catherine meticulously records client and donor data in the Airtable database that she helped build. She keeps all of Diaper Train’s records up to date for staff to use for grant applications and reporting.

12/8/2025 – The mission of Swim for Charlie is to ensure every child is safe in and around water by providing each second grader in Orange County Public Schools the opportunity to learn life-saving water safety skills. Christine Swanson has been an invaluable member of the organization since its inception. Rarely missing a session, she contributed nearly 1,000 hours of pool time. Christine seeks ways to improve her teaching methods and arrives early to help set up the pool area and engage with lifeguards. Her impact extends beyond Orange County, as she played a key role in expansion into a second public school district. She also helps raise funds, manage communications with donors, and track various accounting activities. Neither cold water nor chilly temperatures has deterred Christine from her commitment to Swim for Charlie. 

12/8/2025 – Juanita James has overseen Long Ball RBI’s concessions for the past 12 years. She recruits other volunteers to help, purchases the food, and prepares the chili and coleslaw. Juanita recruited her longtime friends Kim and Tonya Umstead, and they have shown up every day working right beside her. Sheila and Francis Robinson also help, preparing and serving food. According to Pat James, President of Long Ball RBI, “These five volunteers make it easier for me to perform my other duties of running my inner-city baseball program. I don’t have to worry about anything involved with concessions and thanks to them we have always gotten 100% rating. They have truly been a blessing to me and Long Ball RBI”. 

12/1/2025 – Arsh Jha has been part of DOC NC for the past five years and is the current Vice President. One of his critical initiatives was starting the Legacy Program, through which DOC NC preserved the legacy, experiences, and memories of Senior Citizens for future generations. Arsh also reinstated the Cyber Seniors program. Partnering with the Hindu Society of North Carolina, he taught seniors how to bridge the generational digital divide and better utilize technology. He developed lesson plans With the Big Brother Big Sister program to educate elementary schoolers on the environment and core STEM topics. He coordinated hands-on educational exhibits and activities to promote environmental awareness through a booth at Apex Earth Fest. Arsh’s dedication to community service, environmental sustainability, and intergenerational connection is inspiring. 

12/1/2025 – As Board Chair of the NC Down Syndrome Alliance, Jeff Lineberry took the helm determined to make an impact. He led the charge to start a new Down Syndrome Clinic, single-handedly raising over $100,000 in one month. Jeff also took the lead on the organization’s biggest fundraiser event, coming in as the largest fundraising team (in honor of his daughter), and making it the most successful event on record. But Jeff is much more than a fundraiser. You can find him any day of the week serving as office handyman, driving a U-haul to events, supervising youth dance classes, training new board members, or on the phone with a parent who just received the diagnosis that their unborn baby will have Down syndrome. Jeff is 100% committed, spending as much time on this work of passion as his real job. 

11/24/2025 – Sonia Daptardar has contributed over 100 hours to the Cary Teen Council (CTC) and additional hours through other initiatives. At CTC, she organized and led community events. Beyond her work with CTC, Sonia is the creator and host of Inspire-Unite-Motivate, a talk show highlighting youth changemakers who drive meaningful impact in their communities. She is also the founder of Seeds of Reading, an initiative that combats early literacy gaps by creating accessible reading content, hosting global literacy campaigns, and partnering with organizations to provide educational resources to young children. As co-founder of the Sunshine Initiative, Sonia worked to empower senior citizens through projects and joy-filled events. As a Youth Ambassador for Hum Sub, she helped organize cultural events such as Cary Diwali. For the past four years, Sonia volunteered for the Children’s Day festival of Cary. She worked as a stage host, introduced performing groups, and completed other duties around the stage area. She showed genuine interest and commitment while performing assigned tasks. She is an excellent stage host and with her constant positive attitude, Sonia has been a welcome addition to the stage team.

11/24/2025 – Sheryl Jordan is an enthusiastic Swim for Charlie (SFC) instructor who excels at teaching students of all swimming levels, whether they are advanced or fearful. She adapts seamlessly when new students are added to her group and remains calm in any situation. Beyond teaching, Sheryl volunteers for tasks such as posting flyers and preparing equipment. She facilitated a donation from her church’s monthly service and actively recruits new volunteers, raising awareness of SFC’s mission. She ensures that students receive the best possible experience in learning essential water safety skills. Sheryl leaves a lasting impression on students, and many are reluctant to say goodbye after the program. 

11/17/2025 – Suma Borra started volunteering with Neshama Animal Rescue over two years ago, her passion and dedication to animals were apparent from the start. During the past year, Suma attended multiple adoption events at local pet supply stores and community events where she helped introduce potential adopters to adoptable dogs and cats. She also started volunteering at the organization’s cat enclosure at a local pet supply store. Suma completed many shifts, taking part in the crucial but mundane everyday tasks like feeding, cleaning, and socializing many adoptable cats. She also helped recruit other volunteers and advocated for the importance of animal rescue with her peers. Suma has demonstrated great commitment to Neshama Animal Rescue, her community, and the most vulnerable—the animals who can’t speak for themselves.

11/17/2025 – Samaiya Pinkney has been a dedicated volunteer with the Durham Center for Senior Life’s Congregate Nutrition Program for the past year. The program offers free, hot meals for low-income older adults. Every day Samaiya is off from school, she shows up early to help set up the cafe, making sure coffee and snacks are prepared. She stays and helps with cleaning, restocking supplies, and serving food. Samaiya is polite, patient, and kind to everyone who comes through the door. She is also adaptive and reliable. When asked to cover the reception desk after a last-minute call out, Samaiya readily agreed and picked up the role with ease. Her attention to detail and high level of empathy for older adults stand out as star qualities that allow her to thrive in every role and work well with the public.

11/10/2025 – At the start of the school year, Sarah Dias assisted her school’s technology librarian by preparing Chromebooks, issuing devices to students, and creating signage for the school library. During the past three summers, she volunteered for the Museum of Life and Science summer camps. She worked directly with campers on various experiments and projects, serving as both teacher and mentor. As the Design Lead for the TerrorBytes Robotics team, Sarah taught computer-aided design (CAD) to team members and middle school students. She played a vital role in organizing the MiniFRC robotics competition, introducing over 100 students to STEM. She also mentors the RoboWhales Robotics team. Through her volunteerism, Sarah has addressed critical needs in STEM education and inspired the next generation of innovators. Update: Sarah is now the co-captain of the Robotics Team.

11/10/2025 – Sheri Vultaggio’s dedication to Able to Serve is a remarkable example of perseverance, passion, and the power of service. Since 2021, she has consistently served twice a week, building meaningful connections and pouring her heart into creative crafts that inspire and challenge participants. However, Sheri’s journey has not been without obstacles. On Christmas Day 2023, she suffered a stroke, leading to short-term memory loss, as well as difficulties with speech and mobility. A few months later, she endured a second stroke, compounding her challenges. Yet, rather than letting these hardships define her, Sheri faced them with unwavering determination. Though she no longer can drive, she finds a way to ensure she can continue serving twice a week. Her commitment and will to keep giving inspire everyone around her. 

11/3/2025 – Hannah Bowen first served as a coach for Girls on the Run of the Triangle, Inc. (GOTR) during the 2014–2015 season. She went above and beyond to rally volunteers for 5K events, source and provide goods for packet pick-up bags, and support event-day needs. She helped secure GOTR’s initial sponsorship through the company she worked for. Her passion for the organization’s mission and consistent willingness to step up has made Hannah an invaluable board member. Thanks to her continued advocacy, GOTR received additional sponsorships for key initiatives, including their annual luncheon and the launch of a new curriculum, Bold Heart. Even after transitioning to a new workplace, Hannah has remained a steadfast champion of GOTR, proactively seeking new sponsorship opportunities and ways to further their work. 

11/3/2025 – Shemecka McNeil is the founder and leader of Slice 325. Slice 325 has become a trusted and indispensable resource in North Carolina, particularly for rural residents and historically underserved families across multiple counties. Through innovation, creativity, and unwavering commitment, the organization addresses critical gaps in health, education, and essential services while forging strong partnerships with community organizations. Shemecka has ventured into immersive learning, integrating virtual reality (VR) into health, nutrition, and community empowerment initiatives. Through innovative VR experiences, she brings interactive education to life, making nutrition and wellness more accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. Slice 325’s impactful work exemplifies dedication to improving lives and fostering health equity. 

10/27/2025 – Ruth Dzau has been an integral member of the Museum of Durham History’s Board of Directors for many years, bringing a wealth of experience from her extensive civic leadership roles in communities such as Boston and Palo Alto. In her capacity as a board member, Ruth has been instrumental in the Museum’s growth, offering innovative ideas, strategic planning, and effective execution. Her ability to inspire and engage donors, as well as cultivate meaningful relationships within the community, has been pivotal in securing vital support for the Museum’s mission. Through her unwavering commitment, energy, and advocacy, Ruth has made a lasting impact on the Museum of Durham History and the broader community, ensuring that Durham’s stories are preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

10/27/2025 – Mary Wilson is a cornerstone of compassionate service in Durham, dedicating her time, energy, and heart to uplifting our neighbors experiencing homelessness. As a Board Member of Open Table Ministry, she provides visionary leadership, ensuring the organization remains responsive to the evolving needs of those they serve. Beyond her leadership role, Mary is a hands-on volunteer who directly serves our unsheltered neighbors each week. She and her family spearhead Fresh Start Durham, a mobile shower truck that is stationed at Open Table Ministry’s Free Store every Tuesday, providing hot showers, haircuts, and a renewed sense of dignity to those living outside.

10/20/2025 – Marty Moore joined Meals on Wheels Orange County NC (MOWOCNC) way back in 2002! She has been delivering to Chapel Hill Route #10 for many years and has formed personal bonds with the meal recipients living on this route. Marty returns from her deliveries with detailed notes and feedback about her clients. She recognizes when someone is feeling under the weather or seems to be struggling and makes sure the client receives a follow up phone call and additional support, if necessary. She is kind, warm, and always has a smile on her face, no matter what challenges life throws her way. MOWOCNC is grateful to have Marty as one of its amazing volunteers.

10/20/2025 – Vincent and Sophia began volunteering with Piedmont Wildlife Center (PWC) in May 2023 as part of the parent-child volunteer program. Together, they have formed a reliable team dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of our animal ambassadors. Their commitment is evident in their diligent work and in their readiness to rise early to feed the animals while ensuring Sophia arrives at school on time. They have become familiar figures at outreach events and on-site maintenance projects. Vince assisted in repairing enclosure roofs and moving heavy materials. Sophia has excelled in engaging with the public, educating visitors about our animal ambassadors and the mission of the organization at various events. PWC is immensely grateful for the dedication Vince and Sophia have shown. 

10/13/2025 – Sarah Schulz has volunteered with the Museum of Life and Science’s Animal Care Team for over two years. She consistently exceeds requirements in her commitment and level of care for the Museum’s Farmyard, Explore the Wild, and education animals. Rain or shine, in cold or hot temperatures, she is willing to be outside, raking and shoveling yards, providing the animals with enriching, clean habitats and proper nutrition. Sarah has taken time to get to know the animals and their normal behaviors so that she can tell when anything is unusual. She is quick to bring concerns about the animals and their care to staff, ensuring that they receive any needed attention, adjustments, and extra care. Sarah’s easygoing, positive attitude always shines through even during difficult circumstances, uplifting fellow volunteers and animal care staff.

10/13/2025 – Vanessa Adams (right) has been a dedicated volunteer with Liberty Hospice for the past two years. Her contributions include in-home physical assistance, cooking meals, light housekeeping, pet care, and emotional and spiritual psychosocial support. She also assists with shopping needs and offers respite care for caregivers. Vanessa’s compassionate presence during her first patient’s passing demonstrated her capacity to provide crucial emotional and spiritual support. Since then, she has volunteered for at least five other patients, consistently going above and beyond in her service. As an ambassador for Liberty Hospice, she has shared her experiences with others, becoming one of the organization’s most effective recruitment tools. Vanessa embodies Liberty Hospice’s mission to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

10/6/2025 – Mike Nye has been an outstanding volunteer with Urban Community AgriNomics (UCAN), dedicating countless hours to property research and historical preservation. His work has been instrumental in uncovering significant facts about the site, which is located on a former slave plantation. With a career in the Durham School System, Mike extends his passion for education to the Catawba Trail Farm, where he volunteers his time to guide and teach youth about environmental stewardship. Beyond his research and educational efforts, he is always ready to roll up his sleeves and lend a hand with the many on-site projects at the farm. Whether it’s assisting with maintenance, supporting new initiatives, or simply offering a helping hand wherever it’s needed, Mike’s dedication and enthusiasm are truly invaluable to UCAN.

10/6/2025 – Marlys Litchfield has been a dedicated Durham Habitat for Humanity volunteer for approximately four years. Marlys, a regular volunteer, is extremely helpful in meeting the needs of the Site Supervisors. Rain or shine, she always arrives at work prepared. She is willing to teach new volunteers about whatever duty she is assigned. She is task-oriented, witty, and reliable. It is clear that she understands Durham Habitat’s mission and is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others. Through her years of service with Durham Habitat, Marlys has helped address the affordable housing gap in the Durham area. 

9/30/25 – Elliot Yoon is a Volunteer Lead for the Root Causes Fresh Produce Program. On distribution days, he ensures seamless operations, guiding volunteers with enthusiasm and efficiency while fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment. His hands-on approach and problem-solving skills ensure that fresh produce reaches participants every week. Beyond his visible contributions, Elliot excels as the Participant Communications Coordinator, working behind the scenes to maintain clear, compassionate, and effective communication with participants. His thoughtful outreach strengthens relationships, ensuring that participants feel valued and supported. Elliot’s dedication, organizational excellence, and ability to inspire others have elevated the Fresh Produce Program, improving food security for our community.

9/30/ 25 – For the past three years Lori Foraker has been an integral part of the Durham Center for Senior Life’s Shop & Grab, a program where participants can select food and household items at no cost. During Shop & Grab, she checks in members for the day, adds walk-ins, and keeps members informed about upcoming events and future Shop & Grab dates. Lori coordinates the 100 individuals the program serves by keeping everyone on time and relaying instructions with clarity, efficiency, and patience. Her contributions extend beyond the program itself, as she delivers food to homebound clients, ensuring that no one in need is overlooked. Lori’s kindness, dependability, and selfless service make her an outstanding volunteer.

9/22/25 – For over 13 years, Mary Charles Blakebrough has been a dedicated Vets to Vets United volunteer. She consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to serving veterans and pups, going above and beyond expectations. Her contributions have been invaluable in improving and saving veteran lives, and their pups. Mary Charles displays remarkable leadership qualities, inspiring and motivating other volunteers every day. Her dedication and selfless service have made a profound and lasting impact on the Vets to Vets United community.

9/22/2025 – For the past three years, Hari Vijayakumar has been an integral part of Triangle Disability Awareness Council’s (TDAC) mission. She began her work with TDAC by teaching technology, helping individuals with disabilities develop the skills necessary to navigate the digital world. Hari has reviewed documents, conducted research, and offered support for individuals with various disabilities. She has actively supported TDAC’s advocacy and education efforts to build a more inclusive society. In addition to her significant contributions to TDAC, Hari has also been a leader in creating partnerships with other local organizations to amplify the voices of individuals with disabilities. Her proactive approach to collaboration has resulted in increased awareness and engagement from the community.

9/15/2025 – John Bordonali’s willingness to lend a helping hand makes him an invaluable asset to Meals on Wheels Orange County NC (MOWOCNC). John is a Delivery volunteer, a Set-Up volunteer, a MOWOCNC Loves Pets program volunteer, and Incontinence program volunteer. He also helps with other needs, such as making holiday meal deliveries. John consistently goes above and beyond, not only delivering meals with efficiency, but also taking the time to connect with recipients, offering a warm smile and a friendly conversation. His punctuality and reliability ensure that those in need receive their meals on time, and his genuine care for others fosters a sense of trust and security for those he serves.

9/15/2025 – Linda Borkowski is the unofficial assistant director for R Place, Orange County Department on Aging’s weekly respite program for people living with dementia. She works with the most high-need clients and is a great role model for new volunteers and visiting students. Linda will come to the center any day of the week to help prep for crafts or brainstorm ways to improve. She brought in a variety of jackets to have available for anyone who needs one (and she washes them). She volunteered to collect R Place volunteer hours to make sure that the reporting is accurate. EVERYONE agrees that R Place is better because Linda is behind the scenes making sure things go as flawlessly as possible. 

9/8/2025 – Since joining in 2009, Joyce Poole has been an active member volunteer of the Assistance League of the Triangle Area. She served on both the Operation School Bell and Scholarship committees. She has also served as chairman of Resource Development, the program under which Assistance League’s Thrift Shop falls. Joyce has been the Thrift Shop manager many times over the years, pricing and arranging the shop furniture in the store. She has a talent for thrift shopping, and her knowledge of customer preferences has helped grow shop revenues. She takes pictures for the shop’s Facebook page, allowing customers to see new items every week. In the 2024 fiscal year, Joyce gave over 584 volunteer hours to the shop and multiple committees. 

9/8/2025 – Paul Leifer has been volunteering at the Brier Creek Habitat ReStore for over five years. While Paul is not a professionally trained carpenter, he is a skilled hobbyist with a remarkable ability to transform donations into high-quality products. Every creation he touches enhances both the shopper experience and the store’s ability to generate revenue for affordable housing. Paul is a cornerstone of the Brier Creek ReStore team, supporting staff and mentoring other volunteers with humility and warmth. His craftsmanship, organization, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the culture and effectiveness of the store. He also volunteers at least once a month on Habitat Wake or Habitat Durham build sites, putting his skills to work on homes in progress. Paul is a shining example of what happens when passion meets purpose.

9/1/2025 – The JC Raulston Arboretum’s “Construction Crew” is a team of volunteers who create, restore, and maintain the spaces and experiences that make the garden a cherished destination for the community. This past year, they undertook the challenging task of prepping and painting The Necessary at McNeel Corner—a beloved landmark which houses the garden’s restrooms. Their precision and dedication transformed a weathered structure into a welcoming centerpiece that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding garden. The Construction Crew’s efforts extend far beyond a single project, turning ideas into reality. They approach each project with care and determination, fully understanding the impact their work has on the people who visit and love the JC Raulston Arboretum.

9/1/2025 – David Sorscher is a dedicated volunteer with Durham Habitat’s framing crew. Over the last four years, he has become a crew leader for big events, including the 9/11 Build, Veterans Day Build, Pride Build, and MLK Day of Service. David also volunteers as an individual and goes out of his way to assist new volunteers who are initially intimidated by being on site. His support, kindness, dependability, and consistency are admirable. It is always a pleasure to see his calming face on site. David understands Durham Habitat’s goal and values, which include continuing to develop the community and closing the affordable housing gap. 

8/25/2025 – Joan Pellettier is dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults. Over the past 40 years she has served in a number of roles, including Meals on Wheels Coordinator with the Durham County Department of Social Services, Aging Program Administrator with the Triangle J Area Agency on Aging, Executive Director for the Coordinating Council for Senior Citizens, and Director of the Triangle J Area Agency on Aging. Joan was very important in the coordinated implementation of Durham’s 2020-2025 Aging Plan. She played an instrumental role in the development of a new organization, Aging Well Durham (AWD), which would manage the Aging Plan. She is still supporting AWD and the Aging Plan by remaining available to answer questions. Joan never worries about taking credit for anything she does but remains focused on community collaboration to make life better for others.

8/25/2025 – Alison MacLennan began her journey with Vaccine Ambassadors in 2016 as a volunteer bookkeeper, bringing not only financial expertise but a deep commitment to equity and transparency. Her work helped establish the strong fiscal foundation needed to grow the organization’s impact. Since joining the Board in 2020—and now serving her second term as Board Chair—Alison has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s strategy and resilience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, Vaccine Ambassadors has expanded access to routine childhood immunizations for hundreds of thousands of children in low- and middle-income countries, allowing many parents to rest easier knowing their children are protected. She also helped ensure historically marginalized communities in North Carolina received timely access to COVID-19 vaccines. Her thoughtful, mission-driven approach continues to strengthen the organization at every level.

8/18/2025 – As Executive Director of the Charles Hamilton Houston Foundation, Inc., Dr. DeWarren Langley exemplifies visionary leadership and commitment to empowering boys and young men of color. Under his guidance, the Foundation has delivered transformative initiatives that include the Young Men of Excellence Program, Career Pathway Program, and Black Wall Street Academy. These initiatives have achieved 100% success in preparing scholars and fellows for college, careers, and entrepreneurial ventures. Dr. Langley has championed innovative strategies, such as the Boys of Color P.O.W.E.R. Summit and Summer Career Academy, to inspire resilience, leadership, and opportunity. Dr. Langley has fostered a culture of equity, excellence, and impact, ensuring the Foundation remains a beacon of hope and success for the next generation of leaders.

8/18/2025 – Mr. Don McGurrin is a math tutor and mentor for Saint Mary’s School students. He spends countless hours preparing for tutoring sessions, taking the lead for online course tutoring needs and meeting with students in the school library during critical times, including evening study hall and learning lab periods. When unable to make it to campus, he schedules through Zoom to meet the needs of his students. Mr. McGurrin works hard to deeply understand the obstacles in the learning process and puts plans in place to foster growing confidence in math for students who need to know that “they CAN do this.” He cannot speak about the growth of his students without tears of pure joy in his eyes. Mr. McGurrin is the epitome of selfless servant leadership and shows great perseverance in meeting the needs of a diverse group of learners.

8/11/2025 – Barbara Jessie Black has served on numerous boards across the state, including more than eight years of dedicated service on the Board of Directors for Piedmont Health Services. Her work on the Board has been grounded in a deep commitment to health equity and community empowerment. She brings both strategic insight and bold advocacy to every table she joins, helping organizations like Piedmont center justice, inclusion, and dignity in all their work. Barbara is actively engaged in the communities where she lives and works, giving generously of her time and talent to causes she holds close—workforce and economic development, access to health care, racial equity, and social justice. Her contributions to advancing racial equity in our region are immense and enduring. 

8/11/2025 – Annie Tane is an exceptional leader and dedicated volunteer with Special Olympics North Carolina (SONC). She plays many roles, including Bocce Games official, Global Messenger, and Health Messenger. Notably, Annie is the first athlete to serve as Vice Chair of the SONC Board of Directors. As Vice Chair, she contributed to critical decision-making processes, bringing the athlete perspective to the forefront. She is a role model for her peers, inspiring others with her dedication to the mission of Special Olympics. Her ability to connect with donors, volunteers, and fellow athletes has been instrumental in raising awareness and fostering community support. Annie’s leadership and enthusiasm have elevated the visibility of SONC and strengthened the sense of community among athletes, volunteers, and supporters.

8/4/2025 – Bernette Stivers dedicates much of her time and energy to Marbles Kids Museum. At Marbles Kids Museum, kids are encouraged to learn new things through imagination, discovery, and play. The Board of Directors at Marbles is led by a passionate team in which Bernette immerses herself fully. She goes above and beyond to ensure that children, not just her own, are cared for in safe and fun settings. She also serves on the PTA board of her son’s schools and has held many fundraising positions within the Junior League of Raleigh. Bernette always sees the positive side in any situation, has a servant’s heart, and does everything with a smile on her face. 

8/4/2025 – Sheila Evans actively engages in various Orange County Department on Aging programs. One notable contribution is her passionate involvement with the Solo Agers group. This social group, focused on supporting older adults navigating aging alone, has witnessed continuous growth under her leadership. Monthly meetings and events have become a vital platform for those experiencing aging with little or no family support. Sheila is also involved with the End-of-Life Senior Resource Team and the Mental Wellness Senior Resource Team, both of which have regular meetings and events. Sheila consistently attends, actively engages in program planning, and seeks opportunities to give back. 

7/28/25 – Lydia has been volunteering with the Orange County Department on Aging since 1999. She has volunteered in a variety of different ways, most recently as front desk support at the Seymour Center in Chapel Hill. She volunteers Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. when the building opens until the early afternoon. Lydia is a constant at the center and the senior participants have gotten to know her over the years and depend on her presence. 

7/28/25 – Jane Schwartz handles the daily influx of donations received by the Pretty In Pink Foundation of North Carolina. She ensures that each donor is personally acknowledged with a heartfelt, handwritten note. Jane handles this task with grace and efficiency, allowing the rest of the team to concentrate on mission-essential responsibilities. Recognizing the considerable expense of mailing hundreds of letters, she took the initiative to find a way to reduce postage costs. She also serves as an ambassador for the foundation and actively supports fundraising events. Her versatility and commitment make Jane an invaluable asset to the Pretty In Pink Foundation’s cause. 

7/21/25 – Selena Brown began volunteering with Pretty In Pink Foundation after the foundation was able to help her! A professional hairdresser, Selena had to close her shop due to her breast cancer diagnosis. Finding herself without an income, she became a Pretty In Pink Champion and received its services to get access to medical treatment. Now, she’s a breast cancer survivor and a volunteer who shares her experience with various groups across the state. Selena delivers a powerful testimonial with vulnerability and a contagious smile, inspiring everyone she speaks with. In addition, she emceed the foundation’s signature fundraising event—the Pink Pumps and Bow Ties Gala. By talking about her healthcare journey in a genuine, authentic way, Selena is truly paying it back and making a huge difference for Pretty In Pink Foundation. 

7/21/25 – Andi Seger volunteered in several of the Assistance League Triangle Area’s programs until she became the Chairman of the Kids Place program. This program, which began in 1997, was a single room created as an oasis for kids being treated at Raleigh’s WakeMed Emergency Center. When Andi took over the program, it was in need of a creative revamp. Under her guidance, the Kids Place program expanded to include 11 locations throughout the Triangle. The committee supplies comfort items at each location including teddy bears, children’s books (in English and Spanish), Play-Doh, toys, and a treasure chest filled with a variety of children’s items. Through her efforts, Andi has helped provide comfort to countless children and their families during a very stressful time within emergency department facilities.

7/14/25 – As new volunteers for the Western Wake Crisis Ministry (WWCM), Stephen Rotondo and Mark Kerr led a team to improve processes and operations. Some of their improvements included documenting storage capacity and layouts, storage and handling strategy enhancements, new operating procedures and volunteer training materials, and a new inventory management application. Some of the resulting benefits include better product organization and more efficient use of space, improved cleanliness and work-place safety, fewer errors, greater visibility to inventory, and easy-to-access data. Stephen and Mark did this while also performing their normal volunteer duties in WWCM’s warehouses. The improvements they implemented have been vital to meeting a 15% year-to-year growth in requests for food assistance from WWCM’s food pantry.

7/14/25 – Barbara Easley’s primary roles is sorting and stocking food, helping to keep the Chatham Outreach Alliance (CORA) food pantry well-organized and well-stocked. In addition to her regular responsibilities, Babs actively participates in the Retail Recovery program, ensuring that that surplus food from local retailers is recovered and distributed to those in need. She also packs boxes of food for the CORApacks and SNACK! programs. Living nearby, Babs is available at a moment’s notice to assist with any urgent needs or coverage gaps. Her willingness to go the extra mile speaks volumes about her character and the sincerity with which she approaches her volunteer work.

7/7/25 – Serving as a compassionate “warmline,” the NAMI North Carolina Helpline team provides mental health information, support, and referrals. They respond to Helpline emails and calls, assisting individuals and families navigating the complexities of the mental health system. The team continually vets and updates their resources to ensure that they provide the best options for callers. One of the team members authored a resource manual. This manual serves as a comprehensive tool, enhancing the team’s ability to provide accurate and helpful information to callers. The outstanding accomplishments of the NAMI Helpline team are reflected in their responsiveness to over 2,000 contacts per year. 

7/7/25 – Kevin Sommers has been a volunteer for Habitat Wake for almost 15 years. He is a volunteer leader in the Force of Habitat program that helps Habitat Wake staff lead hundreds of unskilled volunteers on a weekly basis. He leads builds with confidence, humility and patience. Kevin has led in large 100+ home build communities, special event blitz builds, and large groups of people. He recently joined Habitat Wake’s Force of Habitat Advisory Council. In this role, he collaborates with staff and fellow volunteer leaders to help improve processes, provide skill trainings, and create best practices. Kevin is an outstanding leader who has played a major role in the growth of Habitat Wake and has contributed to the construction of over 50 homes in Wake and Johnston Counties.

6/30/2025 – Both Alexander and Carol Lawrence played pivotal roles in creating and producing the JC Raulston Arboretum’s weekly garden education program, the “Midweek Program“. Alexander spearheaded the technical production aspects, helped research, acquire, and test equipment, and trained staff and volunteers. Carol offered innovative ideas and fresh perspectives that helped shape the content of the sessions, making them both informative and visually captivating. These efforts resulted in the creation and production of over 250 live content videos, which have become a cornerstone of our digital outreach. Hosted on our YouTube channel with nearly 10,000 subscribers, this content effectively connects with plant lovers around the world, spreading the Arboretum’s mission far beyond our gates. Carol also updated tour guide training materials and created a successful tour guide training curriculum. She has expanded our speakers bureau program which gives presentations to community groups. Together, Alexander and Carol form a dynamic duo whose collaborative efforts contribute immensely to the success and global reach of the Arboretum’s educational initiatives.

Copyright © 2025 JC Raulston Arboretum: Photo Collection ID# 752709, taken by Alexander Lawrence in 2025; Event: 2025 Raulston Blooms!; Location: JC Raulston Arboretum, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States ; https://jcra.ncsu.edu/resources/photographs/details.php?serial=752709 Us at the 2025 Raluston Blooms. Shot by volunteer Heath White

6/30/2025 – Julie Rigby is an integral part of Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue (NRGRR). Her efforts include managing foster dog behavior cases, hosting webinars to facilitate foster dog training questions, transporting dogs from shelters, to adopters, to fosters, and to adoption events, and training dogs that have been adopted from NRGRR at no cost to the owners. Julie also engages in community education programs, spreading awareness about responsible pet ownership and the importance of animal welfare. She (along with other volunteers) travels to places like Albania, Turkey, and Kosovo to save abandoned, neglected, or abused Golden Retrievers with little chance of adoption in their home country. Julie’s positive “can do” attitude, reliability, and collaborative spirit have had a profound impact on the entire NRGRR team. 

6/23/25 – Dr. Buchanan graduated from North Carolina State University and completed postdoctoral studies at the University of Michigan, Harvard University, and the University of Oregon. He came to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1970 to develop the Prenatal Genetics Diagnosis Program. He directed the Prenatal Genetic Counseling Clinic and Cytogenetics Laboratory for 12 years and participated in the Birth Defects Treatment Center and UNC Cancer Research Center. 

Voices Together is a statewide organization that empowers individuals to find their voice and create their own path in life through specialized music therapy. Joining the Board of Directors of Voices Together in 2013, Dr. Buchanan recruited engaged Board members with the expertise needed to guide the growth and development of the organization. As a medical geneticist and clinical cytogeneticist certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics, Dr. Buchanan gave unique insight into the autism community (the primary community served) that enabled Voices Together to become a leader in the field. His leadership helped secure a research partnership with Duke University, major funding from the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust, and a major contract with the North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. He led Voices Together through the pandemic, providing guidance as a virtual delivery model was developed. Under Dr. Buchanan’s leadership, Voices Together has grown from a $250,000 budget to a $7 million budget and increased from serving 100 students to serving over 1,600 children, teens, and adults. 

6/23/25 – The 2024 Zakat Foundation of America interns—Radeyah Maryam, Adam Qaimari, Haleema Sadiya, Zeba Hussaini, and Majid Azzam—took the lead on a great number of projects. They arranged, organized, and led tutoring sessions for refugees who were struggling with school. They packed and distributed school supplies and backpacks to foster kids in Durham. They planned and participated in distributions of groceries, fresh produce, and hot food to underserved communities in various locations. They collaborated with the Family Promise and Middle Eastern Refugee Association to organize a free health clinic for refugees at the Zakat Foundation community center. These interns all stand out as go-getters and confident individuals who are committed to helping those in need. 

Included in photo: Husein Syed, Haleema Sadiya, Hadi Niazi, Samir Tusneem, Nasi Abyan Rahman, Javairia Haq, Radeyah Maryam, Adam Qaimari, Jannah Azzam, Majid Azzam, Suhaib Azzam  

6/16/2025 – Sarah Stoeckel has made substantial contributions to the Wake PTA and Cary Rotary through their volunteer work. They received the Rotary Presidential Citation for Outstanding Service 2023 after chairing the auction committee. As co-chair of the WakePTA Advocacy Committee, they recruited monthly speakers and launched Get Out the Vote programs for all 190+ schools in Wake County. Sarah’s volunteer work has included fundraising and project management for an inclusive playground, leading two Girl Scout troops, leading the WakePTA Advocacy Committee, serving on their site based PTA, serving on the Board of the Cary Community Foundation, and serving on the Diaper Bank of NC Board. Sarah serves as an inspiration to fellow volunteers, motivating them to give their best. 

After moving to Pittsboro, Sarah transferred to the Chatham County PTA. 

6/16/2025 – Harriet Stephenson has been a steadfast champion of StepUp Ministry’s children. She began by helping care for children and young adults while their parents attended life skills training classes. She quickly recognized the need for more than basic childcare. With Harriet’s assistance, the children’s program grew into a thriving, research-based program that nurtures the whole child and family unit. As the Director of Nursing Education at WakeMed, she has used her knowledge and resources to connect and inform StepUp, particularly in the healthcare arena. Harriet has served multiple terms on the Board of Directors, recruited high-level resource partners, hosted a table for the Impact Luncheon fundraiser, and served as a stellar representative in our broader community.

6/9/2025 – Note in the Pocket volunteers, Mandie and Bill Hershberger, process essential clothing items. As designated Underwear and Sock Volunteers, their dedicated service has helped meet the needs of homeless and impoverished students and families in our community. Mandie and Bill’s special skills and qualities are evident in their meticulous approach to processing donations. Their attention to detail, organizational skills, and collaborative teamwork have set a high standard for efficiency and dedication in creating bundles for the individuals who Note in the Pocket clothes. Their hard work stood out as they processed an impressive 50,000+ pairs of socks and 50,000+ pairs of underwear per year, a testament to the magnitude of their contributions in supporting those in need.  

6/9/2025 – Lynda Harris volunteers at least two days per week at Safe Haven for Cats, cleaning the shelter and providing feline enrichment. Her extraordinary knowledge of cats, particularly shy and older felines, earned her the endearing title of “Cat Whisperer.” She goes above and beyond by sharing insightful videos on the organization’s private Facebook community, Accentuate the Pawsitive. Lynda’s innovative use of videos not only benefits the staff and volunteers but also enhances the adoption process by offering potential adopters a deeper understanding of each cat’s behavior. In pioneering the use of social media at the shelter, Lynda has bridged the gap between volunteers, fostering a positive and collaborative online space. Her videos serve as a powerful tool for Adoption Services, aiding in their mission to find loving homes for cats by providing comprehensive insights into their behavior.  

6/2/2025 – Jack Hicks’s volunteer journey with Durham Habitat began in 2016, with a heightened level of consistency since 2018 when he joined the Framing Crew. His steadfast presence was particularly crucial during the post-Covid shutdown period, when his commitment helped the organization regain its footing. In the past year, Jack took on the responsibilities of a Crew Leader, guiding on-site volunteer groups through the intricacies of the building process. As a Crew Leader, Jack has played a crucial role in fostering a positive environment for volunteers, especially those new to the building process. His reliability, patience, and kindness have made a lasting impact on both the organization and the volunteers he has worked with.  

6/2/2025 – Landy Townsend is not one to sit in the bleachers. As a head coach, occasional announcer, fundraiser, Parent Advisory Committee member, Vice-Chair on the Board of Directors, and a player’s dad, the bleachers are the last place you will find Landy at the Miracle League of the Triangle. He coaches each of his teams with enthusiasm, patience, and gracious leadership. He mentors new coaches, encourages volunteer engagement with the players, and jumps on the field to lend other teams a helping hand. He brings fresh ideas for how the organization approaches its marketing plans and is always available to serve as a sounding board for the staff. Landy’s passion for the Miracle League is inspired in part by how it changes the way people think about individuals with special needs.

5/26/25 – Dr. Saba Mokry volunteers eight hours each week for Wake Smiles, a dental clinic that serves uninsured adults who have little to no access to quality dental care. Her devotion goes beyond the clinic’s regular hours, as she serves as an on-call doctor 24/7. In her adjunct clinical position with UNC Adam’s School of Dentistry, Dr. Mokry supervises dental students in a volunteer capacity. This allows the students to contribute to serving refugees at Wake Smiles one Saturday a month. Dr. Mokry initiated a groundbreaking digital denture program that has been instrumental in offering tooth replacement options to individuals who would otherwise lack access to dentures. As a member of the Board of Directors, she plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability and focus of the organization on its core mission.

5/26/25 – As an Orange County Disability Awareness Council (TDAC) volunteer, Brandon Young goes the extra mile to support the team, customers, and overarching mission of TDAC. One of his accomplishments has been the successful management of best practice learning sessions. Leading an annual accessible web design course for volunteers, he also takes charge of the website’s accessibility, design, and future functionality. Brandon organizes team meetings and virtual skills and team-building exercises. He meticulously maintains a list of student volunteers who are safe, well-trained, and ready to visit shut-ins. Through coordination of volunteers and website communications, he supports the community and believes organizations like TDAC are the glue that knit our social fabric together, bridging otherwise unseen gaps between neighbors. 

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5/19/25 – Frank Yarborough began volunteering for the Miracle League of the Triangle in 2006. The joy, love, and sense of fulfillment the experience gave him then and every year since has brought him back to the ball field for 17 years. He’s coached two teams and served on the Board of Directors. With the assistance of another coach, Frank began a Wednesday night clinic where players received individualized instruction to improve their game. This clinic laid the foundation for a new program, the Advanced Player Academy, a competitive league for Miracle League participants. Frank’s audio/visual company is a team sponsor. His company has assisted with sound systems and scoreboards at all three League ball fields. Frank embodies Miracle League’s mission to create positive life experiences for children and adults with special needs and their families through baseball. 

5/19/25 – Michael (Mike) Hall has actively served Durham Habitat for many years with a group of volunteers from Mt. Sylvan United Methodist Church in Durham. The group constructed ramps, mobility aids, and new homes for residents in the county. In the past year, Mike handcrafted more than 280 bowls from leftover construction lumber for Durham Habitat homebuyers. This thoughtful gesture goes beyond the physical structure of a house, creating a sense of warmth and welcome for those moving into their new residences. 

5/12/25 – Beyond her legal practice, Anna Smith Felts actively engages in civic causes and community service. She serves as President of the Wake County Academy of Criminal Trial Lawyers. She is Vice President on the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Good Business. She is involved in the support of underprivileged children through the Super Kids Scholarship Program’s special committee. Anna served as a Board member for Beginnings, supporting hearing-impaired children, and the State Capitol Foundation. Her involvement as legal faculty for the Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism at Campbell Law School’s Intercession Program demonstrates her commitment to legal education. Anna’s welcoming demeanor and commitment to inclusivity shine through in her volunteer work with cultural events. 

5/12/25 – Lupe Boyle has been a volunteer with Assistance League of the Triangle Area since November 2019. Currently, she volunteers as the organization’s Treasurer; and she has previously been on the Board of Directors as First Vice President, led the Finance Committee, and worked as the liaison for the Advisory Council. She is also Vice Chair of the Operation School Bell program, which provides new clothing, shoes, school and health supplies to children in need. Lupe was instrumental in expanding the program by contacting several police departments to work with them through their Shop with a Cop Program. She was involved in implementing alternative delivery methods for students not attending school in person. She attended thirteen in-store shopping nights and acted as a Spanish translator in addition to performing her volunteer tasks for the evening. Lupe quietly works to help thousands of children in the Triangle Area. 

5/5/25 – Bruce Anderson, a volunteer mechanic and key member of the Wheels4Hope team, has assessed and repaired many cars. He will take on any mechanical assignment, doing the research and planning required to determine the best way to perform the repair. Bruce will then work on the repair until it is completed no matter how difficult it becomes or how long it takes. Wheels4Hope recently acquired tire mounting and balancing equipment. This equipment is very intimidating to the typical volunteer mechanic, with its heavy weight and high-speed operation. Bruce studied this machinery and learned how to operate it safely. Repairing donated cars quickly, safely, and completely is the heartbeat of Wheels4Hope. Bruce keeps that heartbeat strong every day he volunteers at Wheels4Hope. 

5/5/25 – As a volunteer for the NC Victim Assistance Network, Sarah Ensing provides support to the surviving loved ones of homicide and victims of other violent crimes during judicial proceedings. Her service is remarkable, especially during homicide trials, where she regularly commutes from Edgecombe County to the Wake County Courthouse. Sarah’s outstanding accomplishments extend beyond her physical presence; she ensures that she is well-equipped with necessary supplies, often covering the costs out of her own pocket. Her commitment to supporting survivors during the emotionally challenging process of judicial proceedings speaks volumes about her compassion, empathy, and dedication to the well-being of others. 

4/28/25 – Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when needs were high and volunteers were scarce, Pamela stepped forward to volunteer at SECU Family House. Everyone… guests, staff, and volunteers alike look for her each day. She has folded thousands of linens, made hundreds of cups of coffee, organized donations for the kitchen and pantry, sorted toiletries, and motivated other volunteers to join her in improving areas of the house. She often uses her baking skills to provide treats for guests and staff. Pamela’s radiant spirit and compassionate nature shine as beacons of hope, bringing warmth and comfort to the guests at SECU Family House.  

4/28/25 – Mr. Ray, as he is affectionately called, is the star volunteer at Person County Animal Services. He comes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday like clockwork to walk the dogs and talk to visitors and potential adopters. He shows up in the rain, the heat of summer, and the cold of winter. He attends every adoption event and donates monetarily to the shelter. Mr. Ray shares the shelter’s social media posts on his own social media pages and is always ready to talk to anyone about an available dog, with the hopes of finding them a forever home. He takes new volunteers under his wing, training and developing relationships with them. Ray Block has been a lifesaver; he’s provided needed assistance when the shelter was understaffed and facilitated many dog adoptions, potentially saving some from euthanasia.  

4/21/25 – The “Telling the Full Story” Platform focuses on illuminating the history and experiences of local Black and Indigenous communities. Spearheaded by the Alliance and supported by the National Trust, the initiative has evolved into an interactive map chronicling the history of significant locations and capturing oral narratives from individuals who have witnessed societal changes. The committee members invested countless hours in shaping the platform’s direction, conducting interviews, and editing content. Their contributions are invaluable for both preserving untold history and creating a legacy for future generations. The committee’s special skills, qualities, and leadership have been evident in their collaborative efforts, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity.  

4/21/25 – A sharp mind, academic prowess, curiosity, and adept communication skills make Hussain Hassan a standout contributor to The Disability Awareness Council (TDAC). His fellow volunteers trust him implicitly with key responsibilities and projects. Hussain was recently elected to lead the organization during the upcoming academic year. He helped set up a tech lab for seniors and veterans. He provided computer support and education to individuals with disabilities and dedicated time to writing web content and researching articles for TDAC’s website. Hussain believes in the transformative power of volunteering and its potential to inspire others to be their best selves.  

4/14/25 – Hope Renovations prepares underemployed women and gender expansive individuals for construction careers and helps older adults age in place. Michael Reach has saved the organization thousands of dollars by utilizing his decades of experience in finance, construction, and HR. He also worked alongside the construction crew, helping make repairs for individuals who would otherwise struggle to afford such work. Michael taught almost 80 trainees math and professional development skills. He actively fundraises by helping Andrew’s Automotive in Hillsborough, then requesting donations for Hope Renovations in lieu of payment. Michael’s kindness and empathy enhance the organization’s environment, creating a positive and supportive atmosphere for all involved.

4/14/25 – Tyler Stopa has been a dedicated volunteer with the Meals on Wheels Orange County (MOWOCNC) program for nearly 10 years. He delivers hot meals, fresh produce, milk and desserts to meal recipients two days per week with some help from family members or care providers. Each Wednesday, Tyler picks up bagel donations from Brandwein’s Bagels, re-bags LOTS of bagels into smaller bags, and then drops them off at MOWOCNC’s office for delivery to meal recipients on Thursday mornings. Tyler is caring and thoughtful; he always has a friendly greeting for MOWOCNC staff members and other volunteers.

4/7/25 – Known as a “mover and shaker”, April Schaeffer is recognized for her persistence and ability to form meaningful relationships with school and community stakeholders. She supported the resurfacing of the softball and baseball field at GC Hawley Middle School and actively participated in enhancing facilities at South Granville High School. She played a pivotal role in renovating the South Granville softball facility, addressing Title IX issues and securing donations from local businesses. She organized the 1st Annual Granville County 4-H/FFA Livestock Show and the Strikeout Hunger softball game. Her grant-writing efforts secured a zero-turn lawnmower for the athletic program. Ms. Schaeffer’s volunteerism extends beyond facility improvements, generously donating her time to work concessions at school events.  

4/7/25 – George and Emilie Beglane have been a part of Durham Habitat’s siding “geezer” crew for nearly twenty years. George, originally part of the siding crew, expanded his impact by contributing to the framing crew and playing an instrumental role in launching Durham Habitat’s Playhouse Program in January 2013. Both George and Emilie have emerged as strong advocates for Durham Habitat’s mission within the community. Their advocacy for affordable housing initiatives and their consistent presence in various volunteer capacities exemplify leadership within the organization.

3/31/25 – John Scott works with the Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System as a dedicated advocate for homeless veterans. He recognized that many homeless veterans lack basic necessities. This led him to start his own organization, Students Supporting Soldiers, to help veterans in his community by organizing food, clothing, and toiletry drives. Through his efforts in November of 2022, John collected over 200 pounds of food and $600 in clothing items. In May of 2023, he collected over 175 Hormel meals and donations from his community. Small acts of kindness like this gave veterans much needed resources. John is a great advocate for those who have served. 

John is currently a freshman and Army ROTC cadet at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. He hopes to continue supporting the VA as he can.

3/31/25 – Families Moving Forward (FMF) works in partnership with Legal Aid of NC’s Durham Office. Under the guidance of Peter Gilbert, Legal Aid attorney, work began to develop a training curriculum educating families of their rights as a tenant, informing families of what they can expect from landlords. This workshop became part of FMF’s Renting Smart series. Peter and other Legal Aid attorneys have facilitated nearly 100 Landlord & Tenant Rights workshops and educated more than 280 families with valuable skills. Thanks to volunteers from the Durham Office, they’ve also hosted more than five expungement clinics and provided countless hours of legal guidance to individual families served at the shelter. Legal Aid of NC plays a vital role in helping families to be more successful when they move out of FMF and break the cycle of homelessness. 

3/24/25 – Dr. Geoff Yuen serves as a Technician Assistant volunteer at the Duke Lemur Center (DLC). Geoff cleans animal enclosures, prepares specialized diets for the lemurs, assists with behavioral observations, creates enrichment, and supports the Primate Technician staff wherever needed. He doesn’t shy away from dirty or difficult tasks, of which there are a lot of when working with animals. Beyond his regular animal care tasks, you’ll find him on any given week weeding enclosures with a propane torch, building PVC ramps for the elderly lemurs, drilling wood insect feeders for the aye ayes, weatherizing kennels, branching mouse lemur towers, coding video of animal behaviors, and entering data. He is also a welcoming and helpful presence when DLC onboards new volunteers. Geoff has a great work ethic and is consistently DLC’s top serving volunteer, averaging 400-700 hours each year.

3/24/25 – Over the past two years, Dr. Barbara Smith has dedicated four hours every Tuesday to Reality Ministries. However, the impact of her service transcends mere volunteer hours. Her remarkable relational talents allow her to foster connections and build trust within the community. Her curiosity and attentive listening further enhance her ability to understand and meet the unique needs of those she serves. In times of uncertainty or challenge, Dr. Barbara’s presence becomes a source of comfort, laughter, and genuine companionship. She illuminates every room she enters, demonstrating an amazing ability to remember names, listen with deep compassion, and greet individuals with contagious joy. Dr. Barbara embodies the values of compassion, kindness, and a Christ-like spirit, leaving an indelible impact on staff and the broader community.  

Barbara was also recently featured as our RSVP Volunteer Spotlight! You can check that out here: https://thevolunteercenter.org/rsvpvoq/ 

3/17/25 – JC Swansey (Not Pictured) and Shirley Garrett (Pictured) are a strong intergenerational team who work together as they serve Kids Voting Durham (KVD). JC has inspired dozens of families, schools, candidates, and community organizations to take part in elections and other civic learning and service opportunities. Shirley has been a part of KVD since her freshman year in high school. Upon returning to Durham to attend Duke Law School, she became co-chair of the board with JC. Both have been instrumental in obtaining funding, recruitment, and partnerships for an expanded Youth Civic Leaders program that more than doubled the number of participating youth. They’ve helped develop Kids Voting Election Guides and host Kids Voting candidate forums and other events. They recently led a development effort which resulted in a 40% increase in volunteer hours contributed by Advisory Board members. Also, several new business partners were recruited to support KVD work. JC and Shirley embody the engaged, informed citizenship KVD hopes to foster in our youth. 

3/17/25 – As a Board member, Amber Sniff has helped shape the direction and vision of Triangle Ultimate. As the youth chair, she works to improve the youth programs, infusing them with positivity and encouraging coaches to explore new strategies or techniques. Amber works to make the Youth programs better each season by enriching the curriculum to engage and educate the next generation of ultimate frisbee enthusiasts. She also contributes to clinics and leagues to teach the fundamentals of the sport and instill values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and inclusivity among all participants. Beyond her official capacities, Amber serves as mentor, fostering a culture of support and camaraderie within Triangle Ultimate.

3/10/25 – Neil Upreti has demonstrated a multifaceted approach to volunteerism at Duke University and the wider Durham community. As president of the Duke Gay Straight Alliance, Neil has been instrumental in organizing speaker panels, which bring awareness and education to the community. To help improve mental health on campus, he organized discussions on mental health awareness that provided a safe and supportive space for students to discuss and manage their mental well-being. Through his work with the Food Recovery Network, Neil has been a driving force in the organization’s efforts to collect excess food from campus eateries and donate it to local homeless shelters. Neil’s extraordinary commitment to volunteerism at Duke University is evident in his leadership, empathy, and tireless dedication. 

Update: Neil graduated in December of 2024. He left his positions in good standing and passed along all his roles to underclassmen to ensure the initiatives could continue after he graduated. 

3/10/25 – William C. “Bill” Moore has been the longtime volunteer supervising attorney of the Elder Law Project, a partnership between Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC)’s Durham office and NCCU Law’s Pro Bono Clinic. Over the past 20 years, LANC records show that Mr. Moore has provided pro bono legal services to 314 clients. This level of service ranks him among the most prolific pro bono volunteers in LANC history. During the academic year, he works with the project’s NCCU faculty, staff and law student volunteers to provide free wills and advanced directives to primarily low-income senior citizens of Durham County. Mr. Moore’s advocacy for seniors is second to none; he is always attentive and brings his best to every client he serves. Through his multifaceted service, Mr. Moore embodies the true spirit of pro bono.

3/3/25 – Over the past year, Elizabeth (Lizzie) Sager has played a vital role in meeting critical needs within the Girls on the Run (GOTR) community. A standout accomplishment for Lizzie is her role in the revision of GOTR’s strategic plan. Not only did she collect and analyze data, she also took the lead in meetings and rewrote the plan. Her leadership in this endeavor has significantly influenced the direction of programs and initiatives, enhancing their impact. Despite holding a demanding full-time job and a part-time commitment outside GOTR, Lizzie dedicates her time to volunteer at local races and the season 5k. In addition to her volunteer efforts, she fundraised $1,000 which will help provide scholarships for girls to participate in GOTR programs.

3/3/25 – Brent Heiser joined as a Durham Community Food Pantry volunteer in the fall of 2022 and swiftly rose to the position of “lead volunteer”. He took the initiative to single-handedly reorganize the volunteer food pick-up and delivery protocols, significantly increasing the warehouse’s capacity to collect extra meals for its three weekly distributions. In addition to his leadership role, Brent participates in distribution by driving forklifts, commanding pickups, and overseeing deliveries. His role as a liaison between staff and volunteers contributes to a seamless and collaborative work environment. Without a doubt, Brent Heiser has contributed to the success of the Durham Community Food Pantry. 

2/24/25 – Mark and Anne Paulson are known as the power couple for Families Moving Forward (FMF). Dedicated and passionate, they serve on committees, recruit volunteers from their church, and actively support fundraising events. Mark has served on the Board of Directors since 2017 and recently completed a term as Board President. Anne serves as the rotational coordinator for their church, providing and serving dinner for FMF families. She also supports the development team with the annual Chefs for Change fundraising events, saving FMF significant costs through her event-planning expertise. Beyond their regular commitments, Mark and Anne frequently volunteer for special initiatives, such as FMF’s Rock the Block Day of Service. Their unwavering dedication makes them an invaluable part of the FMF community. 

A tribute video of Mark and Anne can be found on FMF’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eewphkFPcKs

2/24/25 – Reality Ministries places an emphasis on measuring achievement and impact in terms of fostering friendship and belonging. Courtney Graham contributes to this mission, striving to bring people with and without disabilities together to create a deep, thick community where everyone is both a giver and a receiver. In her role as an occupational therapist, Courtney’s professional expertise has been invaluable in identifying and responding to the unique needs of the neurodiverse community served by the organization. She goes above and beyond by providing rides and spending additional time with community members. Courtney shows up each week, offering her full self to the community and contributing to the deep sense of kinship Reality Ministries strives to achieve.

2/17/25 – Alexis Mosu (far right in the photo), a Duke University junior, has held numerous volunteer roles for Root Causes’ Fresh Produce Program including: confirmation calling to participants, packing produce, and delivering bags of produce. Alexis quickly transitioned into the role of Volunteer Coordinator in which she is directly responsible for recruiting and maintaining a volunteer base of between 50-60 volunteers per week. She also took on a second leadership role with the Fresh Produce Program as a Distribution Day Manager. However, what really distinguishes Alexis is her initiative and creativity. In a little under six months, she has launched several new initiatives to enrich the Fresh Produce Program’s volunteer and participant experiences. Alexis is a committed leader, innovator, and change-maker with the Root Causes’ Fresh Produce Program. 

2/17/25 – Slice 325 is a socially responsible initiative that provides culinary education classes to individuals and families. Betty Rodes provided the guidance Slice 325 needed to successfully launch several community outreach programs. She is a strategic thinker who always looks for innovative solutions to complex problems, and her communication skills have been instrumental in rallying support and fostering collaborations. Mrs. Rodes leads by example; always the first to arrive and the last to leave, and her passion and dedication are contagious. She has mentored numerous volunteers, instilling in them the values of service and community engagement. Slice 325 is deeply grateful to Mrs. Rodes for her unwavering commitment, exceptional skills, and compassionate leadership.

2/10/25 – Peter Falciani’s multifaceted contributions highlight his dedication to the Bull City Woodshop. As the “Lead Volunteer” for the Tuesday afternoon group of students, he manages volunteers during his shift, maintains effective communication with parents, and fosters positive mentor relationships with the students. With a career as a sawyer and extensive experience in woodworking, he brings valuable skills that significantly contribute to the students’ learning experience. Peter was key in developing the leveled curriculum that is utilized across the 7th-12th youth programming. He was a founding Board member where he provided valuable business leadership. Peter’s role as a mentor and leader has enhanced the students’ skills and fostered a sense of community and learning. 

2/10/25 – Lisa Nadler has volunteered with Senior PharmAssist (SPA) for over 25 years. She has helped in many roles including Board member, Formulary Committee chair, and Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) volunteer. As Formulary Committee chair, she helps lead discussions with community pharmacists and local healthcare prescribers about medications that SPA might cover with its secondary insurance card. Lisa stepped up to help with database maintenance, reports, and other projects when SPA’s Development staff position was open, and has remained a critical support for the current Development Director. She is always cheerful and ready to help with any task. Lisa is the kind of volunteer leader who can run a committee or work on administrative tasks in the background—she’s always right where SPA needs her most! 

2/3/25 – Jacquelyn Blackwell has enhanced the well-being older adults in Durham County in several practical ways. As Executive Director of End Hunger Durham, she increased access to food assistance resources for community members in need as well as improved collaboration among Durham food pantries. She also ran the Feed My Sheep food pantry for many years and played a key role in ensuring the success of GoDurham’s Senior Shuttle. In addition, Jacquelyn led a bereavement group for the Golden Life Partnership. This initiative celebrates the lives of departed older adults and provides crucial emotional support to those in senior housing complexes. Jacquelyn’s positive attitude and warm demeanor, even in the face of personal challenges, create a welcoming atmosphere for those she interacts with. 

2/3/25 – As a long-time Core Volunteer at the Diaper Bank’s Durham location, Kathy Hohneker has consistently gone above and beyond by packaging items for distribution and packing orders for partner agencies. She’s packaged thousands of diapers, adult incontinence products, and period products for distribution to families across the state. Kathy willingly goes the extra mile, picking up orders for PORCH Chapel Hill from the Diaper Bank’s warehouse and delivering them directly to the PORCH team. Her faithful efforts have been vital to the success of the Diaper Bank of NC and its mission to provide essential products to families in need. 

1/27/25 – The Lawrence and Artelia Perry Scholarship Fund (L&APSF) was established in 2011 to provide scholarships for Durham County public school students who plan to enroll at Bennett College, Livingstone College, or N.C. Central University. From the beginning, Dr. Joyce Perry Edwards, one of 16 siblings of the fund’s namesakes, has actively fostered the growth and stability of this organization. Joyce drafted a resolution of agreement to solidify the cooperation of her 15 siblings. As a result of this agreement, by-laws were drafted, a board was selected and organized, the organization was authorized by the state of North Carolina as a charitable foundation, federal 501(C)(3) status was acquired, and a logo and motto were designed and adopted. Since its inception, the Fund has awarded $133,808 in scholarships to 74 students. 

1/27/25 – Ruth Dzau serves on the Board of Directors for the Museum of Durham History (MoDH). Through her innovative ideas, strategic planning, and effective execution, the MoDH has witnessed unprecedented growth in its financial resources. Ruth’s ability to inspire and engage donors, as well as cultivate meaningful relationships within the community, has been instrumental in securing vital support for the MoDH’s mission. Her visionary approach to fundraising not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term financial stability. In addition to her financial contributions, Ruth’s strategic insight as a Board member has played a crucial role in shaping the overall direction of the MoDH. 

1/20/25 – Tim Fields is a regular participant in Reality Ministries’ “Monday morning mingle”. Beyond regular attendance, last season he took the initiative to lead a Drama Interest Group. Under Tim’s guidance, the group successfully produced their rendition of the Three Little Pigs and performed at two community gatherings. His leadership continues this season as he leads approximately 12 enthusiastic participants. Tim also choreographed and led a dance group that performed at DPAC in Reality Ministries’ Talent Show. He helped organize the annual picnic for the NC Fragile X Foundation, actively connecting and inviting families and participants from the Reality community with Fragile X. Tim’s energetic and innovative approach has had a profound impact on the organization and the broader community it serves. 

1/20/25 – Throughout the past year, Matt Aaronson has been a driving force behind Durham Habitat’s mission to build safe and affordable housing for the community. One of Matt’s distinctive qualities is his continual pursuit of knowledge and skill development. His commitment to self-improvement benefits him personally and contributes to the overall capability and effectiveness of the volunteer team. Matt actively collaborates with other volunteers and groups, fostering a sense of teamwork that enhances the overall efficiency of Habitat projects. His versatility and eagerness to learn showcase a humble attitude that has made him an invaluable asset to the organization.

1/13/25 – Leslie Jewell embodies the spirit of dedication and support within Triangle Ultimate. As a dedicated team admin, her behind-the-scenes contributions are the backbone of successful team operations. Her meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills ensure smooth logistics and contribute to the seamless functioning of the teams. Leslie’s commitment to providing parental support stands out. Her engagement and feedback have been instrumental in shaping the programs and initiatives within Triangle Ultimate. Her insights offer a unique perspective that help create an environment conducive to the growth and development of young athletes. Leslie’s impact extends beyond her defined roles; she serves as a pillar of support for both the teams and the broader Triangle Ultimate community. 

1/13/25 – The Pets at Duke Program relies on meaningful pet therapy visits provided by volunteers. Among these outstanding volunteers is Tanya Horning, along with her dogs, Ginger and Luci. Tanya and her dogs stand out for their ability to tailor each encounter to the specific needs of the patients and their families. She is composed and empathetic while interacting with both patients and their medical teams. You can see that with each visit, it was not only the dog providing compassion and care to the patients. This year, she has taken a pre-med student volunteer under her wing and is guiding the student to see the value of listening and showing compassion when talking to patients. The Pets at Duke Program is better for having Tanya as a part of the team. 

1/6/25 – Susie Dakin serves as the Chapter Registrar for the General Davie Chapter of the NSDAR. She is in charge of registering each member, which includes a great deal of assistance proving the member’s lineage to a patriot of the American Revolutionary War. Susie completes her tasks quickly and efficiently, contacting all prospective members (PMs) to ensure that they understand the nature of DAR as a service organization. She makes them aware of chapter activities, volunteer opportunities, and the costs involved. She also works with PMs to conduct genealogical research as needed to establish direct lineal descent to a Revolutionary War patriot. Thanks to Susie, the General Davie Chapter has seen its membership grow consistently since she became Chapter Registrar.

Vincent and Sophia began volunteering with Piedmont Wildlife Center (PWC) in May 2023 as part of the parent-child volunteer program. Together, they have formed a reliable team dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of our animal ambassadors. Their commitment is evident in their diligent work and in their readiness to rise early to feed the animals while ensuring Sophia arrives at school on time. They have become familiar figures at outreach events and on-site maintenance projects. Vince assisted in repairing enclosure roofs and moving heavy materials. Sophia has excelled in engaging with the public, educating visitors about our animal ambassadors and the mission of the organization at various events. PWC is immensely grateful for the dedication Vince and Sophia have shown. 

1/6/25 – On Saturday mornings, Marsha Coplon helps elevate the Museum of Life and Science’s Insectarium by putting on programming encounters for guests. She is always mindful of the animal ambassadors and makes sure that they are always comfortable and safe. At the same time, she delivers unforgettable encounters that leave guests with joyful memories. In particular, Marsha does a fantastic job at inspiring the younger generation. There is always wonder and excitement in the eyes of the kids that visit and experience her programming. She also helps maintain museum exhibits and animals living space. She assists in the feeding of exhibit animals and helps maintain program animals that are behind the scenes. Her enthusiasm and personality are infectious and always brighten up the day.