United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) is excited to celebrate the impact of our community’s volunteers this season! Our Spring Volunteer Guide, which runs from April through June, matches dedicated volunteers with local organizations in need of support. This year, we are proud to announce that the guide saw record-breaking participation.
A total of 1,495 volunteers joined forces to serve with 50 organizations, contributing an astounding number of volunteer hours. This is almost double the participation we saw last year. With more nonprofits and volunteers participating, we made more connections and had a greater impact. The combined efforts of these volunteers translated into a monetary value of $99,934, demonstrating the profound impact of their time and dedication.
Volunteering plays a crucial role in strengthening our community. It addresses vital needs, fosters social connections, and enhances the quality of life for everyone involved. When individuals come together to volunteer, they build a stronger, more resilient community. Their efforts help bridge gaps in services, support local organizations, and create a culture of giving and support.
“Volunteers are invaluable to our work,” said Ijams Nature Center’s Volunteer Manager, Brandy Cox. “We could not exist without the help of hundreds of volunteers annually, whether they help with a one-time activity like a litter pickup, or regularly provide support for events, outreach, and land restoration efforts. Together, we build a better community, and all our lives are much richer.”
This season, volunteers showed up to help organizations and neighborhoods with a variety of needs. We saw community members put on their safety vests and participate in local park clean-ups and tree planting initiatives. Others donated their time to mentor students or assist at food banks and community kitchens. Even more helped organize and staff various community events, from charity runs to cultural festivals, making sure everything ran smoothly and attendees had a wonderful experience.
The success of this season’s guide would not have been possible without the passionate support of our community members. Their enthusiasm and hard work is driving positive changes in our neighborhoods. By coming together, we have not only supported more nonprofits but also made a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors.
“Volunteers are more than just an extra set of hands in the Knoxville community; they are the heartbeat behind nonprofit work,” shared Emerald Youth Foundation’s Volunteer Coordinator, Gracie Blair. “Without their help, our sports teams wouldn’t have coaches, our afterschool program wouldn’t have tutors, and our high schoolers wouldn’t have mentors.”
Building on Our Success
We are inspired by the outpouring of support we have seen the past few months. The record-breaking achievements of this season demonstrate the true Volunteer Spirit of our community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to every volunteer who contributed their time and energy. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more connected and resilient community.
Want to keep the momentum going? Volunteering is easy and rewarding. Visit uwgk.org/vol to keep showing your volunteer spirit! Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a regular schedule, your support will help build a thriving community.
Volunteer Spotlights
“Ashlyn has been volunteering with Friends of Literacy for several years now, and she is always willing to help. She works one-on-one with students, helps label books, assemble packets, and even fundraise through her classes at UT. We love her commitment to improving literacy in our community.”
Kristin YarnellProgram Director, Friends of Literacy
“Nate, Katie and their four children started volunteering with For the Love of Reading as a way to do something meaningful in the community together. They have been serving for six years, and they have been a wonderful addition to our team. Our organization is better off because of their consistent investment in literacy.”
Esther BennettProgram Coordinator, For the Love of Reading
“Linda was recently selected as the Lakeway CASA Volunteer of the Year for 2024. She always goes above and beyond for children and families she serves.”
Kelley WilliamsExecutive Director, Lakeway CASA
“Stephanie has volunteered in many capacities throughout the past 15 years, from tutoring students to preparing and serving many meals to the 240 at-risk students we serve.”
Holly KizerAssistant Development Coordinator, THRIVE
“Catherine is an invaluable volunteer at InterFaith Health Center. Specializing in gynecology, her expertise in this field is crucial for our female patients. Her warm demeanor and strong work ethic make her a beloved member of our team.”
Kelly MainorAssistant Director, Development and Public Relations, InterFaith Health Center
“Chuck and Lizzie wake up before the sun rises to serve breakfast to guests at KARM five days a week. They build relationships with guests, staff and volunteers. They truly care about our guests and do everything they can to bring a smile and some laughter to their lives.”
Celia LivelyDirector of Volunteer Relations, Knox Area Rescue Ministries
“Kelley and Stella are regular volunteers at Dogwood Elementary School. They are pros when it comes to anything outdoors, and they are an amazing source of information when we have questions. Their dedication Dogwood is what Community Schools is all about.”
Haley EngelmanDogwood Elementary Community Schools Site Coordinator
“Dr. Penniman goes above and beyond to help the underserved in Knoxville access comprehensive, affordable healthcare. In addition to volunteering, he has encouraged hundreds of other physicians to donate their time.
Kelly MainorAssistant Director, Development and Public Relations, InterFaith Health Center
“Dariela goes above and beyond serving with Centro Hispano. She is pursuing her teaching degree and was eager to give back to her community. She is now helping shape young minds and support parents through her volunteer work. We are so happy to have her on our team!”
Cheyenne WoodsVolunteer Coordinator, Centro Hispano de East Tennessee
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