Daily Point of Light

John Leinart has served on the board of directors of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley for more than 10 years.  During his service, John has served as a Big Brother to three young men.  He has also engaged his family in the mentoring experience, including his wife, two daughters, and his 87 year old father.  Leinart is a leader that does not hesitate to lead by example. In his capacity as Director of Human Resources for Deere & Company, John has coordinated volunteer recruitment activities that have recruited over 100 adult mentors for children in his community. 

John West has served Volunteer Mid-South for more than six years.  He does everything from reading to children who live in inner-city neighborhoods to playing bingo with the elderly to creating crafts with ill children. West has been essential in the programming of Volunteer Mid-South.  He is the Chairperson of the Leadership Council and trains incoming volunteers.  These new volunteers learn how to tutor elementary school students, which directly impact the rates of illiteracy and poverty in the community. 

Marie Alfano is the founder and president of Joining Hands, a volunteer-run non-profit that helps terminally ill and permanently handicapped children and their families. Marie works closely with local oncology units to donate head scarves and lap blankets for children and adults undergoing chemotherapy.  She has organized an annual toy and gift drive to assist local hospitals, shelters, churches, and schools. She is a leader in her community. Marie takes over the scene with her passion and delegates responsiblities to complete strangers, while accomplishing the intended goal.

Virgil Sanford is a volunteer’s volunteer because he serves his community in several ways.  He volunteers four to five days a week at the Victory Baptist Church.  The church pastor says Virgil is "one awesome volunteer” because Virgil volunteers about 900 hours a year at the Church.  He takes care of everything from plumbing repairs and building projects to classroom painting.

Jim Mackie is a volunteer who serves as the Chapter Director for HOPE Worldwide-Jacksonville.   He volunteers his time and talent because he believes his service follows the example that Jesus demonstrated and expected from others.  Under Jim’s direction, the organization’s Saturday Academy has improved students’ grades and citizenship awareness.  Students living in high-risk neighborhoods are eagerly returning to the program each year and positively contributing back to their community.  Parents and educators have praised the program and the influence of its positive role models.