Air Force Enlisted Village resident, Helga Howard, was recognized as 2024 Volunteer of the Year at the LeadingAge Southeast 61stAnnual Convention and Exposition in Orlando. Howard was honored along with other individuals and organizations for their dedication, innovation, and commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults.
“We are honored to commend and recognize this year’s outstanding award recipients,” said LeadingAge Southeast President & CEO Steve Bahmer. “Their unwavering dedication, innovative approaches, and tireless efforts in serving older adults exemplify the highest standards of excellence in our field. Each one of them has made a significant impact, improving the quality of life for those they serve and setting a benchmark for others to follow. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and grateful for their invaluable contributions to their communities.”
Howard moved to Bob Hope Village in 2016 with a heart to volunteer. She has happily taken on any project that needs to be done to help residents and the Bob Hope Village staff.
"I needed a purpose in my life,” Howard said. “Volunteering has brought me joy. It’s fun, makes me happy, and makes others happy. Often, it puts a smile on other people’s faces. Making people smile is my motto.”
She volunteers at Bob Hope Village as a front desk receptionist, resident council representative, Wii bowling leader, at the general stores at Bob Hope Village and Hawthorn House, the Dolores Hope All Faiths Chapel, and in other areas.
“Helga is a cherished member of our community who selflessly dedicates her time to various roles from leading Wii Bowling teams and games to assisting at the front desk and supporting activities in the chapel,” Director of Bob Hope Village Bobbi Jo Dominguez said. “Her commitment and generosity uplifts everyone around her, and she makes a profound impact on our community spirit and well-being.”
When she’s not volunteering, Helga enjoys creating greeting cards and gives them to residents and staff as a sincere greeting or hearty thank you. She also rides a bike for an hour daily as exercise, and she is always smiling and waving to passersby.
“Her enthusiasm for volunteering is infectious. She is a natural leader with a heart of gold and a passion for helping others,” Dominguez said. “Many people would become bored volunteering for the same organization year after year and day after day, but Helga brings renewed enthusiasm to each season's event planning with her positive, can-do attitude.”
