Service to Community

Service to our community is deeply important to me. Teaching our future generations the value of service and what it truly means to be a productive member of society matters just as much. Those lessons carry weight far beyond words.

This past Sunday, I was honored to be invited to a food plate giveaway hosted by our current state representative, Dante Pittman. I met incredible people, heard powerful stories, and had meaningful, face-to-face conversations. I was able to answer important questions and simply listen. This is something I believe every public servant should do often.

It is important to me that the citizens of this county know who their Sheriff is. Building relationships, being accessible, listening with intention, and having honest conversations about the Sheriff’s Office, the future, and real-world issues are essential to serving effectively.

One moment in particular on Sunday lit up my entire day. My youngest daughter handed out stuffed animals to children who came up to receive plates. Afterward, those kids asked her if they could give her a hug. Of course, my eight-year-old, who gives the warmest hugs, embraced them without hesitation. Watching that moment unfold warmed my heart in a way that’s hard to describe. It was soul-cleansing.

It reminded me why service matters and it helped my children understand just how fortunate they are. This time of year especially, both kids and adults can take the little things for granted.

It’s not about material things. It’s about the reason for the season; giving back, spreading kindness, and taking the time to be present with family and with one another.

Moments like this reaffirm why service isn’t just something we do, it’s who we are.