‘Our volunteers are out of this world!’: Volunteer Recognition
Over 115 volunteers were honored for their dedication and countless service hours to Veterans.
The 2025 Volunteer Recognition, organized by the Center for the Development of Civic Engagement at the Western North Carolina VA Health Care System, was an 'out of this world' ceremony.
"Our Volunteers are out of this world!" exclaimed Voluntary Service Chief Craig Doane. "We are continually inspired by their compassion, empathy, respect, positive attitude, and the genuine care they show our Veterans."
Volunteers make a significant difference through activities such as playing the guitar, assisting with events, providing transportation, offering comfort and support, and completing specimen runs. Last year, for example, 25 transportation volunteers drove 76,000 accident-free miles, successfully transporting over 600 veterans to their appointments.
Awards were given based on significant milestones achieved, with Robert Scruggs leading the way with an extraordinary 33,130 hours. Collectively, the total volunteer hours reported in 2024 reached an impressive 62,411 hours, showcasing the remarkable dedication of our volunteers.
The awards were presented by the Voluntary Service Chief and Acting Executive Director James W. Dudley, along with Chief of Staff Dr. Ashfaq Ahsanuddin and Assistant Executive Director Craig Holbert.
Volunteers of the Year
The celebration continued to thrive and expand. The voluntary service team established multiple categories for recognition, including Volunteers of the Year, Leadership Excellence, Cornerstone, Outstanding Service, Virtual Volunteer, Silver Sneakers, Coordinator of the Year, and Silver Tire.
Robert Sutton and Ben Maultsby were honored as Volunteers of the Year.
“This recognition signifies the collective efforts of all the volunteers, as we strive to ensure that Veterans feel comfortable,” stated Maultsby.
Maultsby has dedicated 14 years to volunteering in the Oncology Service. As an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War, he views volunteering as a cherished blessing and a chance to give back to those in need.
He provides coffee, blankets, and any necessary items to patients. However, his support goes far beyond that; he engages in meaningful conversations with them, often about their families, military experiences, or a shared passion for ‘old’ cars.
‘It is always better to give than to receive’
Douglas Hamilton, a volunteer specialist, served as the master of ceremonies. During his address, he expressed gratitude for the vast array of VA services that play a crucial role in supporting their mission. He also highlighted the invaluable contributions of the VA Voluntary Service Committee and the 2024 Specialty Meals Sponsors.
Donations to this program help fund a monthly specialty meal that feeds over 200 inpatient Veterans and residents of the Community Living Center.
Becky Stoudt, the executive secretary to the Executive Director, shared her experiences as a sponsor for specialty meals. During a meeting, she discovered the program and felt compelled to relay the information to her family.
“I told my mom about the program. She donates to several charities, particularly during the holiday season, and she was immediately on board,” Stoudt recounted. “My father, an Air Force Vietnam Veteran with 21 years of active duty, would have wanted to continue serving his fellow Veterans if he were still here.”
Stoudt noted that sponsoring meals for Veterans has become a family affair, inspired by her father's teaching: ‘It is always better to give than to receive.’
If you're looking for volunteer opportunities, please reach out to CDCE at 828-299-2514.