Macon-Bibb mayor recognizes National Service Day

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Mayor Robert Reichert proclaimed Tuesday to be National Service Recognition Day in Macon-Bibb County.

“You give your heart and soul for what you do and it’s priceless,” said Tanya Graham-Simms, the Director of National Service at Volunteer Macon, as she welcomed everyone to the afternoon ceremony.

Volunteers from multiple Macon-Bibb organizations met in commission chambers to hear Reichert appreciate their hard work.

“A lot of time we all want to make a big impact, but sometimes the biggest impact you can make is one person at a time, one household at a time, one child at a time. Interacting with them and making a difference in their lives,” said Reichert.

Reichert read his proclamation and provided copies for each organization.

“It is a blessing to have so many people recognize what we’re doing right here in Macon, Georgia,” said Shirley Lester, the Program Manager at Macon-Bibb’s Economic Opportunity Council’s Foster Grandparent Program.

The program gives volunteers ages 55 and above the chance to mentor children.

“We can have more children grow up to be very productive young men and women. Give them the opportunity to express themselves and to be good to themselves,” said Lester.

Some volunteers from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Citizens on Patrol group sat behind the foster grandparents.

“They go around in neighborhoods and they are extra eyes and ears for the police department. They ride around and observe and take notes and let them know about suspicious activities,” explained Graham-Simms.

While their jobs may be different, the reason they do it is the same.

“Because I love people. You have to be a giver and not a taker. You don’t have to have a lot of money or resources to be a giver. Just giving somebody your time or smile is giving,” said Graham-Simms.

Reichert was one of 75 mayors in Georgia who recognized the day. Almost 3,500 counties in the nation participated in total, according to Volunteer Macon.