The heart of a volunteer is not measured by size but by their commitment to improving the lives of others. For Greg and Connie Scott, that commitment starts at home—and radiates outward through every corner of their community. Married for 50 years, the Scotts exemplify what it means to live a life of service, not only to one another but to everyone they encounter.
Their marriage is a beautiful partnership, marked by warmth, humor, and a shared purpose that brightens every room they enter. Whether volunteering together or individually, Greg and Connie bring a balance of caring and comedy, love and laughter to every effort they touch.
A Lifetime of Giving
The Scotts are deeply rooted in community service and volunteerism. Their work spans a wide range of organizations, including Blessing Health System, the Teresa Adams House (TAH),
the Boy Scouts of America, and their local church’s food pantry. Through the R.S.V.P. program and other efforts, the Scotts have dedicated countless hours to helping those in need. Whether creating P.L.A.R.N. sleeping mats for the homeless from recycled plastic bags or crafting over 2,000 ER Buddy Bears to comfort patients at Blessing Hospital, their impact is both tangible and heartfelt.
Heath Richmond, Manager of Volunteer Services at John Wood Community College, put it best: “The Scotts are very giving people and epitomize what Volunteerism is!” Christy Woodward, Director of Volunteer Services at Blessing Health System, shares the same sentiment saying: “Their dedication to this organization (and all the places they volunteer) is a testament to what community really looks like, the Scotts are people fully invested in creating a vibrant and caring community, and a fantastic example to all of us!”
Why They Choose to Serve
For the Scotts, volunteering goes far beyond a hobby—it is a calling. “It gets me out and about and working with people,” Greg shared. For Connie, it is tied closely to her Christian faith. “We like to be of service, and I like to give back to my community as a calling to my Christian faith.”
Their efforts have led to meaningful connections with other volunteers and organizational leaders, fostering a deeper understanding of each nonprofit’s goals. “It broadens our horizons,” said Connie. “When you’re no longer in the workforce, you don’t want social isolation. Volunteering gives us a chance to connect with others who have the same interests. You continue to learn!”
Purpose and Perspective
For both Greg and Connie, “giving back” is about more than tasks completed—it’s about creating a better world. Connie believes it “encourages connections in the community” and gives people the opportunity to meet others “where they’re at” with empathy and encouragement. Greg echoes this sentiment: “The world would be a better place if more people got involved and volunteered.”
Their volunteer work has revealed new personal insights and reinforced their values. Connie shared how she’s learned the importance of taking “extra moments with people” to make them feel heard and comforted. Greg finds joy in the appreciation shown by staff at the hospital: “They say, ‘The Scotts are here—we know we’re in good hands.’”
Measurable Impact, Immeasurable Heart
The Scotts don’t just serve—they track their impact. From the number of diapers wrapped for Covered Bottoms to data from TAH and grants for foster programs, they see their contributions making a real difference. Connie proudly notes the 2,000 ER Buddy Bears she’s helped create since 2022 and the countless sleeping mats for the homeless made through P.L.A.R.N.
Post-retirement, their schedule is as full as ever—Connie volunteers four days a week and Greg three to four. But this isn’t a new passion; they were active volunteers even before retiring, working on service projects through Horizons and their church.
The Heart of Their Commitment
What keeps them going, year after year? The people, the purpose, and the faith. “The great people we work with and our faith!” they say. “We believe that the services we provide make a difference, and we feel appreciated. We’ve made a lot of friends.”
Their advice to those considering volunteering? “Always remember the other person, and that you are a team!”
Greg and Connie Scott are a living testament to what it means to give selflessly, love deeply, and serve humbly. Their unwavering commitment to each other and their community is more than inspiring—it’s LOVE in motion.
Submitted by: Sarah Cole
Program Coordinator, Volunteer Services
Blessing Health System