AVAHCS Honors Dedicated Volunteers at 2025 Appreciation Celebration

Volunteers who serve selflessly alongside the Atlanta VA Health Care System were honored Thursday during the 2025 Annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration, held at The Holbrook Decatur.

The event, hosted by the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE), recognized the invaluable contributions of community volunteers who support Veterans every day, not for reward, but out of compassion and commitment.  

David Kendrick, acting director of the CDCE, welcomed attendees and delivered opening remarks. 

 “Every single act of service you give — every hour, every handshake, every moment — leaves a lasting imprint on a Veteran’s life,” Kendrick said. “This event is a celebration of that invisible yet powerful legacy.”  

The celebration included a prayer from Chaplain Services, recognition from executive leadership, a shared meal, and the presentation of awards by the CDCE team. Among the many honored were two exceptional individuals: one volunteer who has logged more than 15,000 hours of service, and another who is known for always being present and helping without ever needing to be asked. 

Jennifer J. Gerrib, acting director of the Atlanta VA, praised the impact volunteers have on the Veteran community.  

“These volunteers are truly extraordinary,” Gerrib said. “They show up when no one else does, fill in the gaps, lift spirits, and provide comfort — not because they have to, but because they  care.”  

The celebration carried the theme “Hearts that care, hearts that share,” which was woven throughout the program. A poem titled “The Heart of a Volunteer” was read aloud, underscoring the emotional significance of their contributions.  

The event closed with gratitude, applause, and a heartfelt reminder: the spirit of the Atlanta VA is strongest because of its volunteers.