Editor's Note: This series recognizes people who make a difference in their communities. To nominate someone, call Wendy Victora at 315-4478 or email wvictora@nwfdailynews.com.
BLUEWATER BAY — It takes Doug Smith a few minutes to try to figure out how many volunteer hours he accumulates in a month.
The Army veteran isn’t bad at math; he’s just very busy. But if his calculations are right, he spends about 24 hours a month helping others.
“It’s my turn to give back to the community,” the Bluewater Bay man said. “I’ve been so blessed. I’ll be 85 on my next birthday. I’ve had both hips replaced, a triple bypass, and I’m still here.
“I’m paying my dues for all the blessings I’ve had in my life and I’ll do it as long as I’m able.”
Smith’s volunteer efforts span across the board, and the country. He works with his church, St. Jude’s Episcopal Church, counting the tithe money. And he spends hours on the road for Supper on Saturdays; he also heads to Fort Rucker once a month as part of his former unit’s association.
“I have never known Doug to turn anyone down who needs help,” said Teena Hammond, who volunteers at Supper on Saturdays with Smith. “He stays active in more community activities than I can imagine. I’m almost 30 years younger than Doug and I wish I had half his energy and dedication.
“Let’s face it: We need more people like Doug in our world today.”
Smith doesn’t spend countless hours helping others for the accolades, though. He says he does it because he is called to give back.
“I tell my volunteers all the time, ‘You’re not going to have a parade in your honor and you won’t be on the front page of the newspaper, but you’re doing what God asked you to do: Love your neighbor.’ That’s why I do it.”
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Angel McCurdy at 850-315-4432 or amccurdy@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @AngelMnwfdn.
