Primo Prevo Volunteers
There is a sign proudly displayed outside the volunteer office of the Chattanooga VA Clinic that reads, “Volunteers are not paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.”
Joseph Prevo and his wife Louise of 62 years are definitely priceless at the Chattanooga VA Clinic.
“Joe” as he is called, retired from the Marine Corps after serving 22 years and is a Vietnam Combat Veteran. Originally from Michigan, Joe’s last duty station was in Chattanooga which he now calls home. “I just love it here,” Joe said.
When Joe retired from the military, he worked 20 years as a security officer for the Chattanooga VA Clinic. After retiring for a second time, he began volunteering at the clinic for the last 13 years. His wife Louise joined him and has volunteered her time to Veterans for 8 years. Louise loves coming in with her husband, but when asked she will tell you she likes working separately in the clinic, as she laughs.
The couple of 62 years comes in every morning to prepare and brew Joe’s own special blend of coffee for the Veterans and then goes their separate ways to wherever they are needed.
“I enjoy volunteering,” Joe said. “I get exercise, and I get to help the Veterans.”
Joe and his wife are very important members of the Chattanooga team, and everyone looks forward to starting their day with the duo. During their 13 years of volunteering, the couple has logged 18,383 volunteer hours at the clinic.
Joe also volunteers more than 500 hours per season for Toys for Tots and supports the UT Chattanooga Bursar’s Office’s Ronald McDonald House with their “Pop Tabs” collection project. Joe not only donates manpower hours but life-saving blood donations with over 10 gallons donated to Blood Assurance.
Outside of his volunteering role, Joe is a prominent figure in the Chattanooga community and received multiple awards such as a commendation by Governor Bill Lee for Extraordinary Service to Veteran’s at the Chattanooga VA Clinic and a certificate of appreciation from Chattanooga’s Mayor Tim Kelly for his many years of service to the country and Veteran community.
Our volunteers at the Chattanooga clinic are truly priceless and the Prevo duo proudly represents the spirit of the Tennessee Volunteer State.