JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- The annual Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Volunteer Appreciation Event took place at Tommy B’s Community Activities Center April 14, 2022. This event recognized volunteers across JB MDL for the many hours spent serving others in 2021. The event consisted of opening and closing remarks, certificates and awards to winners and concluded a ceremonial check presentation.
The award recipients that were recognized for their service included Tech. Sgt. Raffi Stambultsyan, Gregory Kruse, Allyssa Berthelotte, Katherine Clayton, Haley Gomez and Thomas Cooper. Some of their accomplishments included the volunteer excellence award, youth volunteer of the year and active-duty member volunteer of the year.
Although COVID-19 presented a challenge to the volunteers in 2021, they were able to overcome it with a total of 121,139 hours contributed to the joint base and the community. These hours of volunteering amounted to over $3 million saved on the installation.
“These are only the hours that were submitted and tracked, so we can safely assume these numbers are much higher,” stated Jacqueline Abell, the installation volunteer program coordinator from the Military and Family Support Center on Joint Base MDL. “Volunteers, today, we recognize you and thank you for all that you accomplished during this year.”
There are numerous ways to become a volunteer on JB MDL. There are currently over 13 volunteer agencies located on the installation. In addition, Abell offers volunteering classes at the Military and Family Support Center and online classes for those who cannot be in person.
“While the majority of people volunteer to serve others, selfless service has many positive benefits for the volunteer as well,” stated U.S. Air Force Maj. Sarah Marianetti, 87th FSS Operations Officer. “It can help one to explore a career, gain leadership skills and can even be used to build a resume.”
“The efforts of the joint base volunteers have enhanced the community, making Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst a better place to work and live,” stated U.S. Army Col. Jon Brierton, Army Support Activity, Fort Dix Commander and JB MDL Deputy Commander. “We thank you for your dedication and selfless service.”
For more information on how to get involved or to become a volunteer, please reach out to the Military and Family Support Center or contact Ms. Jacqueline Abell at jacqueline.abell.1@us.af.mil.