BVI celebrates 50 years of connecting retirees with purpose in the Valley region.
Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc (BVI) President Kathy Black highlighted the essential nature of partnerships when she welcomed over two hundred volunteers, NEA workers and TVA representatives to the annual awards reception at The Embassy Suites hotel ballroom on Sept. 12 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
“As we celebrate the dedication of our volunteers and partners, we also honor a major milestone in BVI’s story – 50 years of connecting people with purpose,” said Kathy Black, President of BVI. “This legacy of impact isn’t just measured in hours served or dollars given, it’s reflected in every student inspired, every visitor welcomed, and every community strengthened by your service.”
TVA’s Chief Business Officer and Executive Vice President of Business Operations Jeremey Fisher was the keynote speaker, thanking all in attendance for their commitment to making the region a better place through their volunteer efforts.
“Thank you for your service to TVA, your valuable contributions throughout your career and for your continued support and dedication as a member of BVI,” Jeremy said. “The work of BVI volunteers is important and impactful. Each of you – and many like you – have given your time, talents and passion to serve with purpose and make the Valley region a great place to live work and play.”
Before the awards portion of the reception, Kathy took a moment to recognize Judy Allen for her 28 years of service to BVI after retiring from TVA.
“Judy has been a cornerstone of our organization for the past 28 years, and she will be greatly missed,” Kathy said.
Additionally, Carol Daniel, who started volunteering in 1995, was recognized for having given over 13,656 volunteer hours.
The biggest honor of the evening, Volunteer of the Year, went to Don and Clara Burgess.
Don and Clara have volunteered at Fontana Dam and Kentucky Dam Visitor Centers together since 1994, and through this year have given more than 7,200 hours of service.
“Volunteering is all about the people – you meet the greatest people that come through the Visitor’s Centers, and we also work with great people,” Don Burgess said.
As a surprise to all those that serve BVI, in honor of the 50th anniversary, BVI donated $50,000 to the Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Muscle Shoals chapters of Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
“Like all of our BVI volunteers, RRC and NEA workers, Sleep in Heavenly Peace leads with their heart, so this donation is made in honor of all that you have done and continue to do for the Tennessee Valley region,” said Adam Wolcott, BVI Director of Operations.