Shining a Light on Service
Our annual volunteer reception is always a special highlight of the year. This year was no exception! Surrounded by the warm glow of camaraderie and appreciation, we gathered on Wednesday, April 23, to celebrate the incredible individuals who make our organization shine.
This year’s event featured a captivating musical performance by Trombonist and VMRC Director of Arts and Enrichment Kyle Remnant, and Pianist, Mathematician and Turner Ashby High School Teacher Crystal Brubaker. Together, they set a joyful tone for the evening.
Melinda Noland, Vice President of Wellness & Enrichment, provided a warm welcome. Heather Denny, who provides Volunteer Services support, shared the number of volunteer hours donated over the past year. Highlights included:
5,000 donated by clinical students from MTC, HHS, EMU, JMU and other schools
3,297 rides provided by our indoor express cart drivers, an increase of almost 600 rides over the previous year
1600 hours contributed by volunteers for our National Juried Art Exhibition
In addition, countless individual volunteers provided hands and feet of service across our campus through visitations, music and arts programs, transporting residents in wheelchairs to and from events, reading to residents, bringing in therapeutic pets, providing hospitality service at the cafe, delivering mail, maintaining libraries, and serving on resident councils.
Altogether, these gifts of time added up to 27,000 recorded volunteer hours.
What dedication!
The pinnacle of the evening was the presentation of the Claude Hess Distinguished Service Award by CEO Jake Bell. He expressed awe and gratitude for the selflessness of our 300+ volunteers. Jake also made it an unforgettable evening for one individual whose outstanding service led to him being awarded the night’s big honor.
John Yeich (rhymes with bike, Mike, and hike) was recognized as the Claude Hess Distinguished Service Award Recipient for the 2024 fiscal year. Folding towels and making coffee for Wellness Center members, escorting individuals in wheelchairs to campus events, and serving the Veterans Club, Men's Club, and various art programs are among his many acts of service he performs throughout VMRC.
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a delightful reception filled with delicious food and an array of sweet treats. The evening not only celebrated the impact of volunteer work but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among all who love to give back.
