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Central Arkansas Veterans Affairs Healthcare System honors volunteers with luncheon

By Special to The Commercial · Community ·
Central Arkansas Veterans Affairs Healthcare System honors volunteers with luncheon
Women in God's Service were recognized recently. The presentation included Salena Wright Brown, associate director for Patient Care Services nurse executive; WINGS Master Quilter Carol Bass; WINGS Director MaryAnn Woodson; Diana New, associate nurse executive for Patient Center Care and Cultural Transformation; Chaplain Michael Jaques, chief of Chaplain Service; and Michael R. Dobbs, chief of VA Center for Development & Civic Engagment/Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service. (Special to The Commercial)

The Central Arkansas Veterans Affairs Healthcare System (CAVHS) honored its volunteers at its annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony and Luncheon.

For the fourth time, Women in God’s Service (WINGS), a women’s group of Village Bible Church in Hot Springs Village, was named the Faith Based Service Organization of the Year for its contributions to veterans. The event was held April 25, according to a news release.

WINGS is comprised of volunteers, both men and women, who sew, quilt, knit and do other activities to assist groups in making lives brighter. They work for Arkansas Freedom Fund, First Step, Jackson House, The Call, St. Francis House and other organizations to help people, according to the release.

In 2024, WINGS donated to CAVHS 120 fidget blankets, 60 backpacks and 10 quilts. CAVHS reported in 2024, 402 regular volunteers have donated nearly 44,000 hours.

This National Volunteer Week, gratitude was extended to every individual and organization who generously volunteered their time, talent and resources to influence and impact the lives of their neighbors, their communities and the nation as a whole.

“Volunteerism is central to the American way of life, exemplifying the spirit that makes America great. In soup kitchens, shelters, schools, hospitals and religious organizations across the country, volunteers encompass a spirit of kindness and compassion to help those in need. These exemplary citizens are role models for their communities and inspire us all with their commitment to selfless service,” according to the release.

During National Volunteer Week, tribute is paid to every American who gives their time and talents in service to the nation.

The organizations include Veterans of Foreign Wars and its auxiliary, American Legion and its auxiliary, Disabled American Veterans, other VSOs, as well as groups such as Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames 17th Century, Daughters of the War of 1812 and United Daughters of the Confederacy.

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