Theresa Backof has been chosen as volunteer of the quarter for Fall 2013 by USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore. Theresa is a staple at the USO International Gateway lounge at BWI, averaging an impressive 44 hours per month (36 more than the average number of hours per volunteer at this location.)
USO BWI served more than 81,000 guests last year. Not only is Theresa is a big part of making that possible, but she also makes each guest she greets feels welcome. She is quick to offer to rock a baby of a frazzled military mom or dad and regularly stays past her shifts to assist when a big flight is coming in.
"Theresa's thumbprint is on most that we do to support the troops here at BWI," said Midge Matlock-Williams, Airport Services Specialist, "There has not been a shift, event or activity that she has not supported." For the last two years, she has taken the lead as volunteer coordinator for our annual fundraiser, keeping everyone motivated and informed. She volunteers with Operation USO Care Package and United through Reading. Theresa regularly washes blankets in the lounge and takes rugs from the children's play room home to steam clean. And she expects nothing in return.
Theresa is one of a select few who supports USO-Metro's Family of Fallen program, one of the most difficult tasks asked of any USO volunteer. It takes a special kind of person to escort a mom, dad, husband, wife or children traveling to or from a funeral. She greets everyone as if they are her own family and friends.
Her kindheartedness is contagious. Theresa is a mentor to new volunteers and a gracious host to troops traveling through. Many guests have left notes complimenting her help, and her fellow volunteers have marveled on her energy and generosity. At the same time, Theresa will be the first one to recognize someone else on the volunteer staff.
Theresa has been called the "ultimate volunteer." Whenever there is a need she steps up and brings a spirit of generosity, concern, commitment and compassion to every situation.
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