Richland One Volunteer wins South Carolina Governor’s Volunteer Award

COLUMBIA, SC – On any given day at Carver-Lyon Elementary School, volunteer Keith Kennedy will be just about everywhere – from tutoring second-graders and stuffing backpacks with food for students in need to monitoring the hallway, helping with after-school dismissal or mentoring fourth-graders.

His service has won the hearts of the students and the praise of the Governor’s Office. On September 25, Kennedy received the Direct Service Volunteer award from the South Carolina Association for Volunteer Administration (SCAVA) and the Governor’s Office. The award ceremony was held at the Lace House on the grounds of the Governor’s Mansion.

“Mr. Kennedy’s dedication and long-term commitment are his most outstanding assets as a Richland One volunteer,” said Katy Watkins, Richland One’s volunteer and mentoring programs coordinator. “He seeks out students most in need of a positive role model and finds ways, big and small, to motivate them. He is a true champion for all students and staff.”

Senator Thomas Alexander, Richland One volunteer Keith Kennedy, Richland One Volunteer and Mentoring Programs Coordinator Katy Watkins, and WIS News anchor Mary King.

Kennedy has volunteered at Richland One schools, including Bradley Elementary, since 2006. His interest in volunteering was sparked by his son’s teacher at Bradley who encouraged him to mentor and tutor male students who needed a positive adult male role model.

His humble and soft-spoken leadership is making an impact on students. “I understand in order for students to achieve their potential and dreams we must provide a strong foundation,” said Kennedy. “Everything I do is in the best interest of the students.”