Research shows new benefits of corporate volunteering, rise in interest

Jackson serves as model for integrating service into workplace culture 

When it comes to workplace wellness, there’s been decades of research on what cultivates a prosperous work environment. Stress management training, apps, professional coaching — all options presented to employees to improve their work/life experience.

But surprisingly, according to research by Oxford University’s Wellbeing Research Center, there was only one notable exception to improving feelings around mandated mood boosters: Volunteerism.

We’re proud to share that for Jackson, our longtime presenting sponsor of the Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards, service is at its core.

In 2023, 48% of Jackson associates used their time and talents to serve communities where they have a presence, easily surpassing its goal of 30%.

Jackson associates serve on nonprofit boards, support local capital campaigns, drive their own donation campaigns and, since 2007, have volunteered more than 338,000 hours in their local communities.

“The biggest trend for us has been the prevalence of requests for team service projects. Departments explore volunteering as part of their team-building activities,” said Niya Moon, Corporate Philanthropy Manager with Jackson. “Many have incorporated these service projects as part of their regional or national town hall business meetings.”

Hands On has seen similar trends. Many companies have noticed the impact of volunteering in the workplace and are starting to encourage volunteerism as part of regular department meetings, employee resource groups, and onboarding of new hires.

In 2023, Jackson teams prepped meals with The Nashville Food Project, sorted donations with GraceWorks Ministries, and even built an accessibility ramp with Westminster Home Connection.

“These projects foster connection among colleagues working in different locations while connecting them with others in the community,” Moon added.

When needing a resource to find group volunteer projects, companies like Jackson can turn to Hands On. Whether it’s a large team volunteer event or a smaller group service opportunity, companies can easily find ways to give back.

Thank you, Jackson, for creating positive change in our community and celebrating volunteerism! Together, we can serve the Middle Tennessee nonprofit community and ensure our neighbors’ needs are met for the long term.  For more information about Jackson and their dedication to service, click here.

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Like Jackson, your organization can also make a difference in our communities! Learn more about our employee volunteer opportunities at hon.org/CorporatePartnerProgram.

Nissan provides essential aid, unwavering support in December tornado response efforts

When a disaster strikes, agencies are only able to respond as quickly as their first available resources. Thankfully for Hands On Nashville, Nissan North America has served as a faithful partner for more than 24 years. This winter proved no different when their hands were the first raised to help after 11 tornadoes decimated our local communities on Dec. 9.

Each disaster response comes with unique challenges. In the aftermath of the December storm, debris littered the streets of neighborhoods, making transportation nearly impossible for volunteers to get close enough to assist those in need. Seeing this challenge, Nissan graciously offered to lend a fleet of vehicles to the Hands On team to transport volunteers and their supplies into affected areas so clean-up could begin as soon as possible.

This wasn’t a plan Nissan had in place or a procedure to be implemented — it was simply a local company passionate about helping, whose staff hand-delivered the vehicles, simply saying ‘We’ll figure it out’ when hundreds were in need.

A volunteer loads supplies into a truck donated by Nissan for tornado relief during the December 2023 activation.

“I can’t say enough how grateful we are to Nissan,” said Mary Martin, Associate Director of Corporate Engagement with Hands On Nashville. “Their team understands the essential volunteer support we provide, and the urgency of this work. Nissan was one of the first companies to call following the tornadoes, lending their hand in whatever way was needed. When we learned of the need for vehicles, Nissan had no hesitation. They jumped into action, figuring out how to make it happen. We are forever grateful for their unwavering support of our community.”

Nissan has a long-standing history of supporting Hands On and our nonprofit partners, donating hundreds of thousands of dollars dating back to the 2010 flood. The funding has assisted with providing food, shelter, relief supplies, emotional support, recovery planning, and other assistance to victims of natural disasters.

“At Nissan, we have an indelible interest in the safety of our local communities. It’s our home — where our employees and customers live and work; so of course we want to support however we can,” said Ali Tonn, Executive Director of the Nissan Foundation. “We are in the business of cars, but also in the business of people. It’s been a privilege to respond alongside Hands On Nashville and we will continue supporting our neighbors in need.” Although much of the press has cleared surrounding the devastating December events, response continues for those affected by the storms. To see the latest news and how to get involved, visit
hon.org/tornado23.

Strobel Finalists 2024: Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award

Congratulations to these three finalists in the Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!

Steve Norris
4:13 Strong

Steve Norris is the founder and a longtime volunteer of 4:13 Strong, a nonprofit organization that provides housing, job training and placement, and independence for 18- to 30-year-old men. Not only has he served as president since 2015, but he is also the chief program deliverer, driver, custodian, mentor, financial contributor, and more. He has given more than 25,000 volunteer hours during his time with the program, and his daily dedication has made an impact on the lives of more than 400 men. Steve’s leadership resulted in the founding of an organization designed to address homelessness, justice, and reconnection of the marginalized with their families and communities.

“The sheer duration of time that Steve gives to 4:13 Strong and the men it serves is inspiring, but it does not come close to telling the whole story of a man who works whole-heartedly to give every 4:13 Strong participant a chance to live into a hopeful future.” — Chan Sheppard, Steve’s nominator

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Dana Morrow
PENCIL

Dana Morrow has spent his career in service to his community. As a lineman, he provided electricity to the community; as an educator, he has provided mentorship and knowledge to students from all walks of life; and as a volunteer with PENCIL and other nonprofits, he provides his time and efforts. Dana has instructed and mentored more than 1,000 people and has provided countless volunteer hours to PENCIL, which links community resources to Metro Nashville Public Schools. Dana is an advocate and champion of education and workforce development and has dedicated his career to helping anyone he can.

“Dana has dedicated his life to lifting up people of all backgrounds, offering instruction, advice, or a sympathetic ear. He has become known by our staff as the King of PENCIL Connect by registering for more in-school volunteer opportunities than anyone else by quite a wide margin.”
— Robert Moxley, Dana’s nominator

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The FreeStore Team
Edgehill Neighborhood Partnership (ENP)

One of Edgehill Neighborhood Partnership‘s most integral programs is The FreeStore, a community cooperative where neighbors come together to exchange donated, new, or used goods. This program could not operate without its dedicated team of volunteers. Servicing more than 2,500 shoppers across Nashville, The FreeStore Team is instrumental in the operations of the organization, ensuring the community gets what it needs. Each volunteer serves an average of six to 10 hours per week, totaling a collective 15,000 hours every year. The team, which helped recirculate more than $1 million in contributed items in 2023, has made a lasting impact on the Nashville community through love and empowerment, ensuring every shopper can come and experience The FreeStore with dignity.

“[The team] pours passion into every week, knows every shopper by name, and makes sure to create a very hospitable experience for our shoppers. This community is spearheaded by the heart for service our core volunteers have.” — Allison Plattsmier, The FreeStore
Team’s nominator

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The Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award recognizes individuals or groups who have made a lasting impact on the community from their volunteer service and have inspired others to create positive change. This award is named in honor of Mary Catherine’s son Charles who dedicated his life to service and recognized the dignity in all people. Want to see all of this year’s finalists? Visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.

Strobel Finalists 2024: Older Adult Volunteer Award

Congratulations to these three finalists in the Older Adult Volunteer Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!

Margaret Jo Cooper
UniCycle

Since Margaret Jo Cooper began volunteering for UniCycle, she has hardly missed a week of volunteering, donating more than 3,000 hours of her time over the past five years. Her stalwart presence and support have helped the school uniform recycling program test ideas and dream big while continuing to steadily distribute more than 35,000 items to Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools students each year. She has an uncanny ability to know exactly how to repurpose donated school clothing, including staying in touch about dress code variations and student preferences at more than 100 MNPS schools. She is a consistent smiling face and supportive voice each week and is an integral part of recruiting and training new volunteers for the program.

“Margaret has integrated our mission into her life in a way that you never know what or who she’s going to bring in that’s just what we need to make school days easier for MNPS students. She’s making life easier, smoother, and better for students and their families each and every day.”
— Jami Oakley, Margaret Jo’s nominator

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Roxana Gumucio
Conexión Américas

For nearly a decade, Roxana Gumucio has played a crucial role as a volunteer instructor for the Negocio Próspero program with Conexión Américas, helping at least 400 Latino immigrant entrepreneurs take the proper steps to plan and launch their small businesses. Through her weekly classes, one-on-one lessons, and biannual workshops, Roxana lends her expertise to her students, helping them navigate the complex business world and uplifting their goals. In 2023 alone, she played a crucial role in supporting 149 small businesses.

“Roxana’s selfless attitude illustrates her dedication that goes above and beyond expectations. [Her] outstanding volunteer service for over eight years, professional demeanor, significant impact on the entrepreneurial community, and dedication to make a lasting impact in the lives of those she serves make her an exemplary Strobel award nominee.” — Justin Munoz, Roxana’s nominator

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Eileen Seitz
Giving Smiles

Dr. Eileen Seitz has a lifelong passion of providing free dental care to the poor and those in need.  While running her own practice, she volunteered over one thousand hours to serve patients at local Tennessee clinics and dental missions.  After retiring her practice in 2016 she founded a nonprofit dental charity, Giving Smiles. She purchased and refurbished a mobile dental clinic, which she drives to homeless shelters, free food pantries, church parking lots, or wherever there are poor or working people unable to afford the high price of dental care. Eileen has also helped struggling musicians, minimum wage employees, domestic violence victims, and uninsured cancer patients among many others. Since starting Giving Smiles, she has tirelessly volunteered more than 7,000 hours, providing 4,000 hours of direct patient care herself to over 2,500 patients.

“The impact of Dr. Seitz’s work is measured by the individuals with smiles restored who can finally secure a decent-paying job or once again enjoy healthy foods. It is seen in the smiles of individuals who were suffering from toothaches before they received her care. Finally, the impact is measured in the return of dignity and self-respect to those unable to afford or access essential dental care services.” — Joanne Ball, Eileen’s nominator

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The Older Adult Volunteer Award recognizes individuals who contributed significant volunteer time, energy, and/or resources in 2023 to help the community. Volunteers or groups ages 60+ are eligible.  Want to see all of this year’s finalists? Visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.

Strobel Finalists 2024: Adult Volunteer Award

Congratulations to these three finalists in the Adult Volunteer Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!

Jason Pazirandeh
Inspiritus Nashville; American Red Cross

As a 26-year-old moving to Nashville, Jason Pazirandeh was looking for fulfilling opportunities to meet people and engrain himself in the community and eventually discovered a passion for volunteer work through two organizations: Inspiritus and the American Red Cross. He fights food insecurity through his involvement with Inspiritus Food Bank, where his efforts of unloading and organizing more than 45 truckloads of food in 2023 helped the organization increase its capacity to serve 350 low-income and vulnerable families in North Nashville each month. Jason also works with the American Red Cross and local fire departments to install free fire alarms and weather radios in high-risk homes across Middle Tennessee. Jason organized six American Red Cross fire alarm installation events between 2023-2024, resulting in over 1,000 Middle Tennessee homes made safer. 

“Jason isn’t just a volunteer; he’s a leader. He uses his skills to improve processes, mentor others, and inspire others to volunteer. Jason isn’t just passionate about helping; he’s passionate about maximizing impact in his service work.” — Catherine Grace, Jason’s nominator

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Maigreth Linares
Conexión Américas

As a Venezuelan immigrant in Nashville, Maigreth Linares is uniquely positioned in her volunteer work to serve Nashville’s Latino community both linguistically and through bringing a culturally adept approach to her volunteerism. Her work with Conexión Américas directly addresses the language and financial barriers within the Nashville community, offering a vital service that is both sought after and necessary. For the past two years, she has dedicated eight hours a week for three months out of the year to the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, a free program that provides tax return preparation for low-income and at-risk taxpayers. Through her efforts, 400 tax returns have been successfully filed, providing crucial financial assistance to members of the Latinx community who may otherwise have struggled with the process. Maigreth’s work not only supports immigrant families now but works toward a long-term multigenerational impact.

“What truly sets Maigreth apart is her compassionate and humble approach to volunteerism. [Her] exceptional commitment to volunteer service, her tangible impact on the community and her compassionate approach to helping others make her an outstanding nominee.” — Justin Munoz, Maigreth’s nominator

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Stephanie Ditenhafer
Tennessee Innocence Project

Stephanie Ditenhafer’s unfaltering dedication to the Tennessee Innocence Project has been essential to the organization’s social justice mission. In the last five years, the organization has helped seven innocent people be released from prison with six full exonerations, all of which could not have been accomplished without Stephanie’s fundraising efforts. She volunteered to become a fundraising chair without a committee and has encouraged family, friends, and colleagues to support TIP’s mission through fundraising or direct volunteer work. Since Stephanie started in 2019, TIP has raised nearly $5 million and accrued a one-year rainy-day reserve of $1.3 million, which will allow TIP to continue its work unfettered in the case of an emergency or economic changes.

“Stephanie’s work with the Tennessee Innocence Project is fundamental to dismantling social injustice. She unselfishly serves because she believes in the innocence movement. TIP would not be where it is today without her.” — Jessica Van Dyke, Stephnaie’s nominator

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The Adult Volunteer Award recognizes individuals who contributed significant volunteer time, energy, and/or resources in 2023 to help the community. Volunteers or groups ages 21-59 are eligible.  Want to see all of this year’s finalists? Visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.

Strobel Finalists 2024: Youth Volunteer Award

Congratulations to these three finalists in the Youth Volunteer Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!

Layla Wilhelmi
Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control (MACC)

Layla Wilhelmi has established herself as an integral member of the Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control (MACC) volunteer team, reaching the “black belt” level volunteer status with more than 100 hours spent at the shelter. She is often seen throughout the weekend walking dogs, spending time with cats, and helping train new volunteers. Layla has brought on more than 10 of her peers to volunteer with the organization, and has been crucial in scheduling times for them to train, assisted in leading their training, and mentored them while they are at MACC.

“[Layla] has instilled the desire to help animals and the greater community to many of her peers and brought in a younger age group of volunteers to the shelter that will continue to help MACC and animals wherever they land!” — Chris Radek, Layla’s nominator

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Rincon Jagarlamudi
Hip Hop Public Health (HHPH)

Over the past three years, Rincon Jagarlamudi has demonstrated his unwavering dedication to improving health literacy in Nashville neighborhoods through Hip Hop Public Health (HHPH), which creates research-based educational resources by harnessing the power of music and culture to improve health in underserved communities. Since initially connecting with the program, Rincon has brought the full suite of HHPH programs to Nashville at Vanderbilt University, establishing HHPH’s flagship college student ambassador program, which will serve as a model for the program’s future expansion. His efforts have cultivated a dedicated team of 20 student ambassadors from Vanderbilt University, who help bring HHPH lessons to more than 500 students in the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools system.

“This story underscores Rincon’s understanding of the profound influence social factors have on health equity. Despite being at an early stage of his career, Rincon has taken part in a breadth of public health work, directly benefiting hundreds of youths in the Nashville area.” — Lindsey Harr, Rincon’s nominator

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Sadie Begtrup
Nashville Tree Foundation

Sadie Begtrup has dedicated her life to giving back to her community, volunteering with five different organizations while balancing her life as a high school senior. She molds her passions into ways to volunteer. Her love of nature has transformed into volunteering for the Nashville Tree Foundation (NTF) for more than 13 years, where she became the youngest Green Shirt volunteer and has personally planted and helped distribute more than 600 trees. In addition to her years of work with NTF, she also volunteers with Room in the Inn, Nashville Shakespeare Festival, the Frist Art Museum, and Sherith Israel Orthodox Synagogue. She has helped transport 250 homeless men and women to shelters, assisted with 12 Shakespeare performances, completed 25 hours of manned art engagement, and can routinely be seen greeting, directing, and engaging the community in religious education and exposure.

“Sadie builds her life around tradition and consistency. She was raised by her community, and she believes in maintaining and growing it for others. This is a child who has already formed a legacy of community enrichment and engagement, but still has her entire adult life ahead to do even more.” — Armin Begtrup, Sadie’s nominator

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The Youth Volunteer Award recognizes individuals who contributed significant volunteer time, energy, and/or resources in 2023 to help the community. Volunteers or groups ages 5-20 are eligible. To see all our finalists, visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.

Strobel Finalists 2024: Social Justice Impact Award

Congratulations to these three finalists in the Social Justice Impact Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!

Larry Powell
4:13 Strong

Following his time in prison, Larry Powell became a steady volunteer at 4:13 Strong, a nonprofit providing faith-based job training and placement, housing, and independence for 18- to 30-year-old men. Larry is no stranger to heartbreaks in life, losing two children to separate acts of gun violence. Larry has taken his experience and heartbreak and poured them into men in the community through mentorship and friendship, helping steer them in the right direction. Over the last six years, he has volunteered more than 1,000 hours with 4:13 Strong, providing leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, and has helped source much-needed items for members. Through his service, he has raised support to provide 15 men with jobs, housing, and food for the program.

“His volunteer service at 4:13 Strong is an effort to amplify his voice through his personal actions of mentoring, counseling, teaching, providing, and leading. He embodies an effective fight for social justice and lifts up those who have been victimized by unequal opportunities.” — Chan Sheppard, Larry’s nominator

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Samaria Leach
Window of Love

When schools shut down due to the 2020 Nashville tornadoes and COVID-19, Samaria Leach jumped into action. She began feeding kids in her community through the window of her home and providing incentives for them to read books and Window of Love was officially born. Through her organization, Samaria provides free meals, books, snacks, gifts, and more, whenever school is not in session. On average, the program feeds 80-125 kids daily in John Henry Hale public housing and in the North Nashville neighborhood. By partnering with other local nonprofits, Samaria makes sure kids do not go hungry when school lunches are not an option.

“Samaria herself is a member of the underserved Nashville community living in public housing, and she thinks outside the box to serve a disenfranchised community. She is letting the kids and their families know that someone cares. She is spreading love and hope through her acts of kindness.” — Jacob Kupin, Samaria’s nominator

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W. Scott Kimberly
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands (LAS)

W. Scott Kimberly volunteers for the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands (LAS) by engaging attorneys from the Rutherford and Cannon County Bar to volunteer at the Legal Clinic at Greenhouse Ministries, which provides legal consultations free of charge. Scott serves as the clinic coordinator for Greenhouse Ministries and has initiated a free Continuing Legal Education event, as well as recruits attorneys to volunteer. Through his efforts, he has doubled the frequency of clinic sessions, organized an expungement clinic, orchestrated fundraisers, and more. This has led to the doubling of overall clients who receive services and increased the number of volunteer lawyers from 100 to 225-plus in 2023.

“Scott’s commitment to serving marginalized communities in need of legal services extends beyond his role as coordinator. The life-changing actions that Scott’s work provides help create a community in which all can thrive regardless of their financial status.” — Kalyne Renda, Scott’s nominator

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The Social Justice Impact Award recognizes individuals or groups whose volunteer work in 2023 was centered on dismantling or calling out systemic injustices or oppression and lifting up disenfranchised communities. Want to see all of this year’s finalists? Visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.

Strobel Finalists 2024: Disaster Response Award

Congratulations to these three finalists in the Disaster Response Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!

Johnny Rodman
Light in The Storm Disaster Relief

Through his faith-based nonprofit, Light in The Storm Disaster Relief, Johnny Rodman provides more than disaster relief to families across the Southeast U.S. — he provides heart and connection. When disaster strikes, he is first on the scene, dedicating time and resources to help those in need by any means necessary, including tarping homes, cutting down trees, reconstructing roofs, and more. In the past year alone, Johnny has served 86 families through Light in The Storm, and beyond physical efforts, he’s gone the extra mile to give these families supplies, clothes, toys, and above all, a sense of normalcy.

“He is always first on the scene in any disaster response and the last to leave. Once the initial wave of volunteers have moved on, you will find him still working with families and homes long after others have left.” — Andrew Jamieson, Johnny’s nominator

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Matthew Leddy
Hands On Nashville

Matthew Leddy’s dedication, thoughtfulness and leadership in the wake of tragedy have impacted countless lives and neighborhoods. When a tornado struck Middle Tennessee in December 2023, he more than rose to the occasion, immediately volunteering through Hands On Nashville to help with the toughest tasks, such as cleaning, clearing debris, demolition, and more. He consistently went the extra mile, prioritized safety, and lent a hand to volunteers and survivors — long after the news cameras had left.

“What sets Matt apart is his incredible dedication, positivity, and willingness to go the extra mile. He would always bring extra tools and supplies just in case it was needed for the day; he always stayed longer to help finish the day’s work, clean and pack up.” — Paulina Robles, Matthew’s nominator

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Emmit Martin
Hands On Nashville

Inspirational, effective, and dedicated to the dirty work, Emmit Martin has worked tirelessly to assist with recovery after the December 2023 tornadoes. He volunteered with Hands On Nashville almost every day for the two weeks following the disaster and continually served and supported this response for months, delivering food, organizing highest-need efforts, removing debris, and more. Emmit stepped up as a leader, creating a safe and efficient environment, supplying his own resources and equipment, and above all, working to offer survivors a sense of normalcy.  

“What sets Emmit apart is both his willingness to devote personal resources (vehicles, trailers, tools) to the cause, as well as his sustained commitment to do as such weeks and months after the initial volunteer wave had dwindled.” — Paulina Robles, Emmit’s nominator

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The Disaster Response Award recognizes individuals or groups who made a significant contribution to disaster relief, preparation, or mitigation and prevention in 2023. Want to see all of this year’s finalists? Visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.

Check out our 2023 impact!

The Community Partner Program is at the heart of Hands On Nashville. This program builds capacity for 170-plus nonprofits, civic agencies, and schools through technology, training, and promotion of their mission and volunteer needs.

In 2023, 100 percent of surveyed partners shared at least one way that Hands On’s programs increased their efficiency, effectiveness, scale or program reach.

We think the numbers speak for themselves — check out how we make a difference here:

Interested in becoming a community partner? Partners receive access to Hand On’s network of businesses looking to engage employee teams in service, special pricing on GeekCause projects — where volunteers solve an agency’s tech-based challenge — plus many other perks! Learn more at hon.org/communitypartner.

Congratulations to the 2024 Strobel Volunteer Awards nominees!

We’re so excited to announce the nominees for the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! 2023 was a year full of incredible acts of service and heartfelt responses to support our communities. Thank you to all the amazing volunteers who were nominated and to those who took the time to nominate! Read on for a full list of nominees in each category. 

What’s next: We’ll announce the finalists on April 1, where you can share their stories of service and begin celebrating these wonderful volunteers and their service organizations. 

Save the date for the celebration: Join Hands On Nashville on Thursday, May 9, when we’ll announce the award recipients on our website and social channels. Award recipients will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choosing, and the remaining award finalists will also receive $250 to donate. 

Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, or Twitter so you don’t miss any important announcements! 

The Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award:  

Recognizes individuals or groups who have made a lasting impact on the community from their volunteer service and have inspired others to create positive change. This award is named in honor of Mary Catherine’s son Charles who dedicated his life to service and recognized the dignity in all people. 

• Amy Eller 
• Ann Tidwell 
• Austin Peay State University Athletic Department 
• Beverly Totty 
• Cheri Ferrari 
• Christian Currey 
• Colby’s Army Inc 
• Dana Morrow 
• Don Schlitz 
• Elaine Kay 
• The FreeStore Team 
• Genesco Inc. 
• GoodWorks 
• Holy Family Catholic Church Women’s Club 
• Judge Terry A. Fann 
• Kren Teren 
• Linda Bodfish 
• Marci Henning 
• Mary Brockman 
• Maureen Chace 
• Maureen May 
• Sarah McLeod 
• Saving Cheatham Animals: Mission PAWsible 
• Second Harvest Regular Volunteers 
• Steve Norris 

Disaster Response Award: 

Recognizes individuals or groups who made a significant contribution to disaster relief, preparation, or mitigation and prevention in 2023. 

• Emmit Martin 
• Johnny Rodman 
• Matthew Leddy 
• Team 2 

Social Justice Impact Award: 

Recognizes individuals or groups whose volunteer work in 2023 was centered on dismantling or calling out systemic injustices or oppression and lifting up disenfranchised communities. 

• Dismas House Resident Volunteers 
• Green Apple Strategy 
• Hattie Isen 
• Inspiritus’s Food Pantry Team (Jason Pazirandeh, Nicole Beaubien, and Laura Treese) 
• Larry Powell 
• Luciana Patterson 
• Reverend John Beach and Mrs. Margaret Beach 
• Samaria Leach 
• W. Scott Kimberly 

 Youth Volunteer Award:  

Recognizes individuals who contributed significant volunteer time, energy, and/or resources in 2023 to help the community. Volunteers or groups ages 5-20 are eligible.  

• Abby Ditto 
• Anna Cate Graham 
• Ava-Wren Holliday 
• Carmen Catignani & Eve Stewart
• Charlotte Bartholomew 
• Dara Kurbegov 
• Eliza Matthias 
• Ella Lucas 
• Elsa Spraggins 
• Eshani Arumalla 
• Hannah Skaar 
• Jerry Zhang 
• Layla Wilhelmi 
• Liam Webb 
• Mary Jackson Tatum 
• Meghan Snyder 
• Rincon Jagarlamudi 
• Sadie Begtrup 
• Victoria Gildenberg 

Adult Volunteer Award 

Recognizes individuals who contributed significant volunteer time, energy, and/or resources in 2023 to help the community. Volunteers or groups ages 21-59 are eligible. 

• Alexandra Nelson 
• Andrea Faw 
• Angie Brantley 
• Becca Teaster 
• Bill Foley 
• The Brazle Family 
• Case White 
• Christ Presbyterian Church’s Team for Siloam Health Nashville Neighbors 
• Dasjah Bost  
• Debbie Sykes 
• Denise Sesler & Amy Lee 
• Dr. Mark Whitefield and Dr. Philip Fontenot 
• Erin Gilmore 
• Gagana Borra 
• Greta McClain 
• Heidi Hartman 
• Jalen Tuch 
• Jamie Joseph 
• Jason Pazirandeh 
• Joanna Reynolds 
• John McConnell 
• Justin James 
• Lady T’s Hope Brigade 
• Maigreth Linares 
• Mary Avent 
• Melissa Smith 
• Melissa Wallace 
• Michael Taylor 
• Mollie Franke 
• Patrick Winchester 
• Sara Horton 
• Sarah McLeod 
• Savanna Starko, PhD 
• Shae Cawthon 
• Shemicka Holt 
• Sisters4Life Nonprofit 
• Stephanie Dickinson 
• Stephanie Ditenhafer 
• Teddy Matosich 
• Wesley Trigg

Older Adult Volunteer Award: 

Recognizes individuals who contributed significant volunteer time, energy, and/or resources in 2023 to help the community. Volunteers or groups ages 60+ are eligible.

• Brenda Wallace 
• Carol McCrary 
• Craig Carmon 
• Curtis Piper 
• Dana Hardy 
• David “Dave” Roberts 
• David & Melissa Chism 
• Dee Plunkett 
• Eileen Seitz 
• Ellen Hecker 
• Frannie (Frances) Martin 
• Howard L. Hale 
• Jayne Omera 
• Joaquin Garcia 
• Joyce Kim 
• Judy Norris 
• Letitia Jane Easdown 
• Madelyn Johnson 
• Margaret Ann Williams 
• Margaret Jo Cooper 
• Marilyn Kubicek 
• Marnie Huff 
• Mary Dionne 
• Mary Johnston 
• Mary Louise Jones 
• Mary Ruth Rogers 
• Michael Hudson 
• Pamela Brashear 
• Patrick Sowada 
• Paul Prill 
• Richard “Rich” Moore 
• Robert George (Bob) Currie 
• Roxana Gumucio 
• Sandra Connell Jones 
• Showers and Blessings at City Road UMC 
• Skipper Phipps 
• Steve Sinclair 
• Susan Charlotte Ladd 
• Susan Doughty 
• Susan Henderson 
• Terry Jenkins 
• Wray Estes 
  

Please note:  All nominees are announced and recognized for their volunteer service after being verified as a volunteer in the correct award category. Being verified does not automatically mean the nominee will be chosen as a finalist. After nominations are verified, 30+ community leaders across Middle Tennessee will review the submissions and make the challenging decision of selecting the Strobel Award finalists. Finalists will be contacted in March directly with more directions before the awards ceremony. If you have additional questions, please email us at handson@unitedwaygn.org.