Stories

At the beginning of April, SHARE Greater Lynchburg kicked off our campaign for National Volunteer Month. We have been spotlighting outstanding volunteers on our social media, giving them the opportunity to earn a Downtown Lynchburg gift card to be used at dozens of restaurant and retail establishments.

Volunteers do so much with our 140 nonprofit partners and April has provided the opportunity for organizations to show their appreciation and support for the fantastic people who donate their time. It is so important to recognize their hard work and SHARE Greater Lynchburg’s partners have certainly done that. 

President of Amherst Glebe Arts Response, Lynn Kable, nominated Ernest Deane for a volunteer spotlight. Kable says, “Ernest Deane agreed to be the Curator for the Amherst Java and Jazz series in 2018 and has continued in this job throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, this series became very difficult to manage. Ernest is also interested in bringing forward and promoting the work of new young musicians. Ernest has been playing jazz in Lynchburg since he was in high school at Dunbar High School in the 1950's.” 

A wide range of nonprofits have nominated volunteers, from Amherst to Bedford and from issue areas of animal welfare to the arts. Mary Hughes, who coordinates volunteers at the National Center for Healthy Veterans, nominated Larry and Paulette Bailey who have been loyal and steadfast volunteers at the center. 

Hughes says, “Larry and Paulette Bailey are one of a kind. We never see them apart. They have been volunteering at Valor Farm for many months even through Larry has been battling cancer.” 

When someone is passionate about the volunteer work they do, it can greatly impact an organization. Becky McCraw has jumped in and is extremely involved at the Bedford Humane Society.

Office Manager Sarah Agoglia says, “Becky is involved in every aspect of the rescue: fostering, treasurer, board member and volunteer. She does it all! - All while working full time too! She is dedicated to improving the lives of our community's companion animals. Her efforts are selfless, endless, and tireless and from the heart.” 

Every facet of volunteer work is important, whether that is helping with painting a building, cleaning out kennels, or volunteering in administrative work like Heather Ennis at the YWCA of Central Virginia.

Development Manager, Emily Rudich says, “While volunteering in administrative work might not seem exciting, Heather always does it with a smile on her face and the willingness to go the extra mile. Heather frequently comes in more than her scheduled volunteer shift when extra hands are needed and has even taken work home with her. We could not do what we do without Heather!” 

Thank you to all of the organizations who have nominated a volunteer and for recognizing the hard work they do, not only during National Volunteer Month, but year round. There are still five more opportunities to nominate a volunteer for their chance to win a $25 Downtown Lynchburg gift card. Visit SHARE Greater Lynchburg anytime to find 140 organizations and over 100 ways to volunteer!