Our Volunteer of the Week this week is Holly Stokes. Holly is married to her high school sweetheart, Billy Stokes. They are blessed to have three beautiful children, Dawson, Laura Beth, and Huntley. Holly enjoys spending her time with her family and watching sports. “Hail State.” She loves Jesus with all of her heart. Her favorite scripture and the one that drives her life is 1 Corinthians 16:14: “Let all that you do be done in love.” Holly strives every day to honor Christ, love deeply, and serve humbly.

How did your volunteering for Miss Mississippi begin?
Volunteering began as I was introduced to the organization by a friend. I have been a big fan of the Miss Mississippi organization since I was a little girl. I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity.

How long have you been volunteering with Miss Mississippi?
I have been volunteering with the Miss Mississippi pageant for three years. It’s such a beautiful organization that pours into young women, encouraging them to be their best, do their best and give their best. I’m all in.

What is your favorite memory while volunteering for Miss Mississippi?
My favorite memory would be enjoying the Miss Parade downtown each year with my daughter. It’s a special time, just me and her. She loves it as much as I do.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering?
It is more blessed to give than to receive, Acts 20:35. Plug into a local organization or your local church and commit to helping to make a difference in just one area. Even if it seems small, your contribution goes much further than you realize. YOU are making a difference.

What are some of your tasks while volunteering at Miss Mississippi?
Specifically, I volunteer and work with the Petite Magnolia Belles. I give my time to make sure that they have a beautiful experience. Their smiles light up my heart. I help keep them organized and ready during pageant weekend and entertain them during the pageant while they wait “patiently” for their time to shine on stage. I would say the most important task I have is to love on them when they need that little extra motivation. Whether it’s missing their mom, or they are tired and their energy is fading. It’s my job to keep encouraging them. It’s what I love to do the most.

What have you learned from volunteering?
Volunteering is not always easy. But it is always rewarding. I have learned that even three years into volunteering, I’m still learning and even still making mistakes, but when you care enough about something you pick yourself up and you give it another try. In the end, you’re not volunteering for yourself but you are doing it for a bigger purpose. Don’t give up on the purpose.

How can someone else who might be interested in volunteering with Miss Mississippi get involved?
Reach out to someone you know who is plugged in. There is a place for everyone. We can help you find your place.

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