Volunteer Fair

Lowcountry Senior Center Volunteer Fair, Charleston, SC 

There was something for everyone who might consider giving back at the Volunteer Fair at the Lowcounty Senior Center this morning. From Pet Helpers to Hospice every agency that uses volunteer support was represented.

Youth Recognition

West Ashley Optimist Club Youth Recognition, Charleston, SC   

Meet the winners of the West Ashley Optimist Club Youth Recognition awards for 2017. I am invited to nominate a student for this award each year and love getting recognition for these amazing students. I am always amazed to read off their list of accomplishments.  Congratulations!

These boots were made for flying

Boots made for flying, Charleston, SC   

One of my volunteer gentlemen came to my meeting wearing these boots he had had handmade for him in India seventy years ago. Wow. What a piece of history. He had been flying planes into China as part of the China, Burma, India theater as a Flying Tiger pilot. The boots might not fit me but I told him not to take off his leather jacket or he might lose it. Thanks Mr. Cobert!

Partying with the Healthcare Heroes

Roper St. Francis Healthcare Heroes, 2014

I've had the most inspiring evening at the Charleston Regional Business Journal's Healthcare Heroes Awards Ceremony at the Francis Marion Hotel. Nominees were recognized in many categories including healthcare professionals, nurses, physicians, EMTs, service animals and volunteers.

I was there to celebrate them all but especially the young woman below who is one of my volunteers. The week after she learned CPR last year she was camping with her grandfather and saved the life of a toddler who drowned in a pond. I am so proud of Brittany I could bust. This gal will go far.

 

Raising Cane

Richard Neapolitan with his hand carved cane, Charleston, S.C.

There is nothing I love more than a sturdy walking stick on a hike. I got so close to my $3 bamboo poles after climbing into Machu Picchu that I wanted to bring them home on the plane and I got sentimental tucking them behind a bush waiting for the next sucker climber. 

Lately I have admired people who have turned their cane into a fashion accessory. I've spotted painted, carved and fancy tipped canes but this one takes the cake. I was at a friend's wedding when I noticed  Richard Neapolitan's cane with his own portrait hand carved into it.The cane was carved by his brother's friend, a retired Army Officer in Murphy, NC.

I did have to ask Richard to explain the inscription. Richard is a long term volunteer at Roper Hospital and met his wife Deb who was an employee there. See - you can volunteer and meet people! The initials stand for "Your Secret Admirer" and "My Only Girl".

Altogether now, "Awwwwww!" That is almost too sweet.

Thanks for letting me share, Richard!