The call came early in the week from Anne Carpenter, Director of Community Engagement for Mission Health. They had a batch of Johnson and Johnson vaccines and wanted our assistance in getting them to front-line workers by the end of the week (March 11 and 12). We jumped at the opportunity to help.
By the end of the week, 100 front-line staff members representing 23 local organizations and businesses got their vaccinations. They now have peace of mind to continue their efforts to serve others.
One community volunteer, Janice, who has been on the front line of relief efforts at the food distribution site at Montmorenci United Methodist Church had this to say:
Money cannot buy happiness - but a J&J Covid vaccine can! I had no idea that a feeling of euphoria would wash over me as I left the vaccine site with that vaccine in my arm. From the beginning of this strange and often awful year, you have stepped up and then gone one more step every time you have been called upon. I am involved with other groups as a volunteer and while many sent out notices to let us know that we could register for the vaccine - YOU went out and got us in line. Amazing!
Here are just a few other statements and photos others shared with us:
I'm the coordinator of the Justice for All Immigration Project at Pisgah Legal Services. Getting my COVID vaccine means protecting Pisgah Legal clients, our communities, and our families. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to be vaccinated today. Thank you!
Noele Aabye
Pisgah Legal Services
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I am looking forward to returning to normal life again!
Toryn Stewart
Skills Instructor | Goodwill
With all the needs in our community right now, it is reassuring that I will be able to stay healthy to support our staff and clients.
Valerie True
Pisgah Legal Services
I work at Goodwill Inc. as a skills instructor. I went today to get the covid vaccine. I did this to help get us back to where we don’t have to be afraid of covid.
Michael Van Gilder
Skills Training | Goodwill
Seeing the long line of volunteers and front-line staff, ready to get their vaccine was overwhelming. It really helped us all to see there is light and hope at the end of such a year of uncertainty and turmoil.
We are so grateful for the call to action each one of these volunteers has stepped up to answer over the past year.
Erika Goffin
Volunteer Engagement Manager | United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County
Bounty and Soul, located in the Black Mountain community, is dedicated to providing healthy food and wellness through local free markets. Their longtime volunteer, Austin reflects, "I appreciate getting the vaccine because I can now work more closely with my BFFs in providing food and fun to 600 families a week!"
Bounty and Soul
