The Volunteer of the Week is William Nettle. Nettle is a 2004 graduate of Warren Central High School and a 2008 graduate of Jackson State University. He is formerly the station director of the City of Vicksburg’s VTV station. He currently works as a realtor with Keller Williams Realty and as director of sales at Hampton Inn and Suites. Nettle previously served on the Chamber of Commerce and Vicksburg Kiwanis Club Boards of Directors, as well as United Way’s Community Investment Panel and currently serves on the United Way Campaign Cabinet and on the board of directors for several community organizations, including: Visit Vicksburg; Warren County Habitat for Humanity; Good Shepherd Community Center; and Delta Health Alliance.

How did your volunteering for United Way begin?

I witnessed a lot of volunteer work through my previous job as a videographer at VTV. I saw firsthand the impact that United Way was having on the community, and I knew I could help. I wanted to give back to the community that has given so much to me.  My volunteering started with United Way, and I eventually served the community in various other roles.

How long have you been volunteering with United Way?

I estimate that I’ve been volunteering with United Way since 2012.

What is your favorite memory while volunteering for United Way?

Several times during the 2016-17 school year, I went to read to a group of third graders at Dana Road Elementar. Their eyes lit up every time I walked into the room and they were always so attentive and eager to read. By the last time I visited, one of the students in the class hugged me and said she loved me. I don’t know how anyone could not want to keep going back after that.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering?

Just do it! Not only are you blessing someone else, but it’s also extremely rewarding. You may think you’re helping someone, but they end up helping you instead. Don’t underestimate the impact you think you’re able to have.

What are some of your tasks while volunteering with United Way?

I routinely read to third graders and preschoolers, doing whatever needed to be done with UW’s Day of Caring and Supper on the Sip, and other events.

What have you learned from volunteering?

Anyone can make a real difference in the life of someone else. Even the smallest gesture of kindness can mean so much to someone else.

How can someone else who might be interested in volunteering with United Way get involved?

Contact the UW office at 601-636-1733, or whatever community organization you’re drawn to and ask, “What do you need?” There’s so much work that needs to be done in Warren County and volunteers are always needed and appreciated.

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