For her Day of Giving, Elizabeth Whelan (EW) discovered a simple yet powerful way to connect generations through kindness. With her children by her side, she joined Love for Our Elders to brighten the lives of older adults through handwritten letters and personalized artwork. What began as a family craft day turned into a heartfelt … Inspiring Forward: A Family Effort to Uplift Our Elders
For Michelle Dunton (MD), writing letters through Love for Our Elders is more than a one-time gesture, it’s a heartfelt tradition. She crafts each note with care, often aligning them with the recipient’s interests and even including student artwork. AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for? MD: The organization I donated my … Inspiring Forward: Handwritten Connection That Lasts
After the holidays, Taylor Vallo (TV) saw a need in her hometown and decided to act. With her son, she filled a local church’s Blessing Box with essentials like canned goods, pasta, and peanut butter to help families facing food insecurity. AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for? TV: We live in … Inspiring Forward: Filling the Blessing Box, Filling Hearts
With stickers, stamps, and warmth in her heart, Dawn Forbes (DF) took part in her first Day of Giving from the comfort of her couch. She joined Love for Our Elders to write and decorate 20 letters for seniors experiencing isolation, proving that mobility doesn’t limit generosity. AC: What organization or local cause did you … Inspiring Forward: Letters of Love from the Heart and Home
For Tamika Jones (TJ), giving back is a lifestyle. She dedicated her Day of Giving to a post-Christmas outreach event with Hoodies and Healing, where she helped serve meals and assemble care packages for people experiencing homelessness. AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for? TJ: Hoodies and Healing AC: Can you please … Inspiring Forward: Giving with Grace Through Hoodies and Healing
Cherette Conely (CC) chose to spend her Day of Giving where she already finds joy, her son’s school. Volunteering at the arts and crafts end-of-year celebration, she brought snacks, painted birdhouses, and helped make beautiful memories with young students. AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for? cc: I volunteered at my son’s … Inspiring Forward: Painting Joy at the End-of-Year Party
We met with Penny Ashley (PA)’s volunteer journey with the BROC organization showcases her dedication to assisting those in need within the Wilkes community. By contributing her time to various initiatives, Penny ensures that families receive essential support, from food to holiday gifts. AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for? PA: I … Inspiring Forward: A Lifeline of Support at BROC
We met with Jessica Johnson (JJ), along with her daughter, who dedicated her Day of Giving to building safe and affordable housing through Habitat for Humanity. This volunteer experience allowed them to contribute to a cause that makes a tangible difference in the lives of families seeking stability. AC: What organization or local cause did … Inspiring Forward: Building Futures with Habitat for Humanity
Jennifer M. Flannery’s (JM) commitment to the Girl Scouts is a testament to her dedication to nurturing courage, confidence, and character in young girls. By volunteering with her daughters’ troop, Jennifer has not only rekindled her childhood memories but also created new ones, guiding the next generation of leaders. AC: What organization or local cause … Inspiring Forward: Fostering Growth with the Girl Scouts
We met with Betsy Pasos (BP) who lent her time and energy to the vibrant Florida Strawberry Festival, assisting in the practical yet vital task of directing parking. This delightful event celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of the Florida strawberry, and Betsy’s contribution ensured a smooth experience for all attendees. AC: What organization or local … Inspiring Forward: Parking with Purpose at the Strawberry Festival