This week’s Volunteer of the Week is Christie Beasley. Beasley is a native of Vicksburg, where she resides with her husband, Jeremy and two sons, Elliot and Clarke. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music education with an emphasis in voice from Mississippi State University and a master’s degree in music education with an emphasis in voice from Jackson State University.  She is currently the director of choral music at St. Aloysius High School. Beasley also serves as the artistic and choral director of the Vicksburg Chamber Choir. 

How did your volunteering for JAV and Miss Mississippi begin?

I began volunteering more in Vicksburg after working at St. Aloysius High School.  Our school develops students to have a servant’s heart and I felt called to do more as well.

How long have you been volunteering with JAV and Miss Mississippi?

I have been a member of the Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg since 2019 and a volunteer for Miss Mississippi since 2018.

What is your favorite memory while volunteering for JAV and Miss Mississippi?

This past summer I was part of Camp Silvercloud for JAV. This camp serves those who are mentally and physically challenged by providing them with a real camp experience. I was emcee for our talent show this year. To see the unwavering confidence and joy our campers exuded was incredibly rewarding. I was honored to be a part of that. With Miss Mississippi, I work backstage. I love meeting our delegates and doing whatever I can to help them be confident and calm their nerves on stage, most often with a dress fluff and a prayer.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering?

We have so many volunteer opportunities in Vicksburg and there is something to fit everyone’s interests. Do some research and sign up. It is so rewarding.

What are some of your tasks while volunteering JAV and Miss Mississippi?

As a member of JAV I have worked with children at the children’s shelter, helped to plan and execute Camp Silvercloud and spent time with other members at Good Shephard and Vicksburg Family Development. As a volunteer with Miss Mississippi, I work backstage left where I work with our team to ensure the show runs smoothly and everyone is where they need to be when they need to be there.  

What have you learned from volunteering?

It is not how big the act is, it is that you are caring enough to serve others.

How can someone who might be interested in volunteering with JAV and/or Miss Mississippi get involved?

Attend a JAV event to find out more about our organization. Call the Miss Mississippi office for volunteer opportunities.

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