Service That Goes the Distance

Shana Sisson, Office Clerk in Roanoke, Virginia, recently volunteered her time to support a community beach cleanup in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. While most volunteers were local, Shana drove an astonishing six hours to join the effort! The cleanup was held in preparation for Wilmington Riverfest, an event that draws visitors from across the region for live music, performances, vendors, and family-friendly activities.

“North Carolina beaches are my happy place,” Shana shared. “Giving back so that they’re around for the next generation is a small token of my appreciation.” 🏖️

The beach cleanup is just one example of Shana’s ongoing efforts to give back and support those in need. As the wife of a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, Shana has supported military and veteran families for more than 25 years. For the past decade, she has volunteered with Operation Homefront, an organization providing various forms of relief to military and veteran families.

Shana also contributes annually to the Back-to-School Brigade and Holiday Toy Drive programs with Operation Homefront. “I enjoy gathering, organizing, displaying, and distributing supplies to Virginia armories for military families,” she said. “Having an active-duty son and a recently retired husband, I understand the demands placed on America’s heroes. I’m always amazed by how gracious our community is in their giving.”

Shana's long-standing commitment has not gone unnoticed, earning her the 2022 NGB Region 3 Volunteer of the Year, an honor that reflects both her dedication and the impact of her work.