Szczukowski named SMSS Volunteer of the Year

photo Signal Mountain Social Services Executive Director Mary Lee Ziebold presents the agency's Volunteer of the Year award to Lisa Szczukowski. They are accompanied by fellow volunteers Kim Thorstenson, Deseret Ward, Dawn Carlton, Frances McAfee, Sheila Champagne and Velvet Stovall, from left. Photo by Emily Crisman

Since 1989, Signal Mountain resident Lisa Szczukowski has been devoting her Tuesday mornings to sorting and displaying donations at the Clothes House run by Signal Mountain Social Services.

The agency has awarded Szczukowski with its Volunteer of the Year award in recognition of her 22-year commitment, which makes her the organization's longest-standing volunteer.

"She's such an asset to our community and agency," said Mary Lee Ziebold, executive director of Signal Mountain Social Services. "She's not only a volunteer, but also an ambassador for us in the community, motivating others to donate their time."

"I feel very honored," said Szczukowski upon receiving the award, which was accompanied by a gift certificate to Southern Star. "I feel it's important to help support the community, and [Signal Mountain Social Services] does a lot of good things."

The veterinarian at Signal Mountain Animal Hospital said she occasionally works with animal-related charities, but the Clothes House is the only place she volunteers on a regular basis.

"I continue to volunteer here because there's a continuing need and it goes back into the community," she said. "I think people should volunteer to help their own community and give back, because the more we help each other, the better things are."

All proceeds from items sold at the Clothes House, which include everything from men's, women's and children's clothing to games, electronics and books, help support the Signal Mountain families served by the agency.

Szczukowski said she began spending time at the Clothes House after hearing from her church the organization needed volunteers to help organize donated items. Depending on the amount of goods donated that week, she may spend three to four hours at the resale shop when she makes her regular Tuesday visit.

Donations of clothing and household items can be dropped off at any time behind the Clothes House. Furniture does not fit inside the building, but can be dropped off outside on Thursday mornings if the donor calls ahead.

"They get snatched up like hot cakes," said Ziebold of furniture pieces.

The agency also accepts appliances such as washing machines, which are given to families placed on a waiting list for clients in need of a particular item.

GET INVOLVED

The Clothes House is at 633 Mississippi Ave. Hours are Thursdays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To volunteer, call 886-3460.

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