Our Volunteer of the Week this week is Johnna Riddick.

Riddick is a registered nurse and full-time nursing instructor at the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing in Jackson.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from UMMC and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Johnna is married to Stephen Riddick and they have three children. Johnna is a member of St. Michael Catholic Church.

How did your volunteering for the Junior Auxiliary begin?
I was nominated to become a member of the Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg in 2021. I love what our service organization stands for and the impact we have within our community. Volunteering and giving back have been instilled in me since I was a student at VCS, so I was happy to jump in with JAV.

How long have you been volunteering with the Junior Auxiliary?
I have been volunteering with JA since I joined the organization in 2021; however, I have volunteered throughout high school, college, and throughout my nursing career.

What is your favorite memory while volunteering for the Junior Auxiliary?
My favorite memories of volunteering with JA would have to be working at the Warren County Children’s Shelter and Camp Silvercloud. Some of the girls at the shelter wanted to do yoga, so we found some videos and attempted a yoga class. Camp Silvercloud is a truly amazing experience. Seeing the children accomplish tasks at camp, complete scavenger hunts, and have the time of their lives is the most rewarding experience.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering?
Go for it. Sometimes people think they will help someone by volunteering, but in my experience, the people you volunteer for help you. I can honestly say I am a better person because of the volunteering I have been fortunate enough to do throughout our community and beyond. If you are thinking about volunteering, reach out to local organizations and get involved. There is so much to do right here in Vicksburg. You don’t have to go far.

What are some of your tasks while volunteering Junior Auxiliary?
While volunteering through JA, I am the current chair of public relations, the Camp Silvercloud co-chair, and the Laces for Love chair. I work to get the word out about things we are doing in the community, as well as to highlight the amazing things our members do. I spend time with other members at the children’s shelter, Good Shepherd, Vicksburg Family Development and more.

What have you learned from volunteering?
I have learned that there are vast needs and opportunities to help here in Vicksburg. Sometimes we take small things for granted, and sharing our time and talents with people can be life-changing not only for the people we work with but also for us. Volunteering is so rewarding.

How can someone else who might be interested in volunteering with the Junior Auxiliary get involved?
JAV has a service project called Helping Hands where we work to help meet needs that come up. Sometimes this looks like a hygiene or school supply drive, collecting gift cards for a family in need, or a night out at a restaurant. These are all easy ways to help out! We also love for people to come to our events and learn more about what we do.

If there is a volunteer who should be featured, please submit their name and contact information to volunteer@vicksburgpost.com.