Volunteer
Do you wish to volunteer your time? HOCRN is 100% powered by our volunteers; we rely on dedicated individuals like you to continue serving our community.
Whether you’re retired and looking for an amazing community resource or have just a few hours a month, complete this form to help us connect you with one of our coordinators. You may also attend our monthly HOCRN member meetings at 2:00 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month at the Heber-Overgaard Fire District.
We are currently needing more volunteer drivers. If interested, please complete the Van Driver Application. You will also need to request a three-year driver record from the AZDot website and provide a copy of your driver’s license.
Other Volunteer Opportunities
We currently need volunteers in these areas:
- Fundraising Efforts
- Furniture Pick-Up Assistance
- Grant Writing
- HOCRN Thrift Store
- Phone support
- Resource Network Day
- Van drivers
Community Volunteers of the Month
Heber Overgaard Community Children’s Christmas Party: January 2026
You may know them as a trusted local health care professional and a beloved bakery owner, but throughout the year, Pam Harris and Julia Mattila are quietly doing something extraordinary. Behind the scenes, they are playing Santa Claus for our community’s children…and yes, they really are!
Pam Harris, for years our local school nurse, recently retired from the Navajo County Health Department, and Julia Mattila, owner of Pie in the Pies and baker extraordinaire, are the heart and driving force behind the Heber-Overgaard Community Children’s Christmas Party. This tradition brings joy to every child in our community, from newborns to 12 years of age, and has become the event of the season for families living in Heber/Overgaard and serviced by the H/O Unified School District.
The Christmas party began 47 years ago with the Kiwanis Club, founded on the simple but powerful idea that no child in our community should be forgotten at Christmas. After many years, coordination of the event was passed to H.O.S.T. , where the tradition continued to grow, eventually welcoming around 300 to 400 children each year to visit Santa and leave with treats and presents.
For the past two decades or more, Pam and Julia have lovingly taken on the responsibility of coordinating this massive community effort. Planning for the next Christmas party begins the very day after the current one ends, ensuring that every detail is ready when December arrives again. From organizing volunteers and purchasing gifts to coordinating wrapping, treats, food, and logistics, the work is constant and year-round. This event is close to our hearts, as it is for every child in H/O or attending school here, without any physical or financial conditions attached. This event would not be possible without the incredible volunteers who give their time and energy, or without the generous donations from our community that help sustain this long- standing tradition. It is truly a community-wide effort—neighbors helping neighbors, all in service of our children.
In January 2026, HOCRN Board Member Duane Tomlinson proudly introduced Pam Harris and Julia Mattila as Volunteers of the Month. Duane shared fond memories of attending the Christmas party as a child himself, later bringing his own children, and now once again experiencing the joy of the event through the smiles of his grandchildren—a testament to the lasting impact of this tradition across generations. Pam, Julia, and everyone involved in the Heber-Overgaard Community Children’s Christmas Party are volunteers in the truest sense: quietly serving, year after year, to make sure every child in our community experiences the magic, generosity, and joy of Christmas.
HOCRN is proud to recognize Pam Harris and Julia Mattila as our January volunteer of the month.
Kathy Vosburgh: December 2025
Kathy Vosburgh, a retired teacher who settled in our community 20 plus years ago, was a winner at the 22nd Annual Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards for inspired adult leadership and our HOCRN December volunteer of the month.
Since 2004, Kathy Vosburgh has led the Golden Mustangs Program at our local schools. The program, based off the Golden Rule, continues to mold the students and community to this day.
What Kathy has done for our community is immeasurable. What began as a simple effort to ease one students’ fear has grown into the Golden Mustangs Program, rooted in kindness, respect, and leadership. At 82, Kathy’s energy still drives the program forward, shaping not just students, but families, and the broader community.
Now in the second generation, Golden Mustangs has become a tradition of support and encouragement. Kathy’s commitment is more than presence it is impact. She motivates students to see the good in themselves and others, encourages them to rise above challenges and celebrates every victory.
Teachers also rely on her as she tirelessly finds funding and resources for projects beyond the school day, ensuring that students experience opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
So here are some numbers that will get you all excited:
- The Golden Mustangs Program under Kathy’s leadership has raised $238,476.83 as it enters its 21 st year, with support from the community.
- Kathy has donated 22,641 hours to the Golden Mustang Program.
- 6,483 students, or about 300 annually, each one welcomed and encouraged by Kathy Vosburgh
As the number of hours served, individuals served, and amount fundraised were tallied, the final numbers were presented to Kathy. Her response says it all, “It’s amazing all these years have added up to that amount of money and that amount of time. It has never felt as “heavy” as those numbers state. I suppose I have felt like when God gave out gifts to each person, he gave me a double dose of “work with kids.”
HOCRN is proud to recognize Kathy Vosburgh and the Golden Mustang Program as our December volunteer of the month.
Bison Ranch Homeowners Association: November 2025
The Heber-Overgaard Community Resource Network (HOCRN) is proud to recognize the Bison Ranch Homeowners Association (HOA) as our volunteer group of the month for November 2025.
Each year on Labor Day Sunday, the Bison Ranch HOA hosts its highly anticipated barbecue and Christmas Toy Drive, a community tradition that brings residents together to reconnect, celebrate, and give back. This special event raises funds and collects toys for HOCRN’s Christmas Adopt-a-Family Program. Generous donations of toys are made available to individuals and organizations adopting families for Christmas, while cash donations are used to purchase gift cards that help brighten the holidays for older kids.
At the heart of this effort is Gary Lindsey, the driving force behind the event. Gary, along with his family and neighbors, dedicates countless hours to ensuring the success of this annual fundraiser. His leadership and compassion help make the holidays brighter for families in need throughout our community. People like Gary Lindsey and the Bison Ranch HOA embody the spirit of volunteerism that makes HOCRN’s projects possible — leading the charge, inspiring others, and delivering big results for those who need it most. Thank you, Gary and the entire Bison Ranch HOA, for your ongoing support and generosity!
HOCRN’s Van Shuttle Service: Powered by Volunteers, Fueled by Community: October 2025
It all started with a van. Thanks to the generosity of WorldMark by Wyndham, which donated the vehicle, and an additional contribution to purchase brand-new tires, the dream of a community shuttle in Heber-Overgaard began to take shape. A local mechanic gave the van a thorough inspection and a clean bill of health. Suddenly, HOCRN had the wheels to get a new project moving—literally. Of course, there was one important detail missing: someone to drive it.
From Idea to Action
That is often how it goes at HOCRN. We get an idea, the excitement builds, and before we know it, we’re running full speed ahead. The shuttle service was no different. We knew the need was there—neighbors without reliable transportation, older residents needing rides to appointments, and families who simply needed a safe way to get around. With the van ready to roll, the call went out: Who is willing to drive? As volunteers stepped forward, the HOCRN Van Shuttle Service was born. What started as a hopeful experiment has now been running successfully for more than two years, and it continues to grow stronger thanks to the dedication of our volunteer team.
Celebrating Our Volunteers of the Month
For October, we are proud to recognize our entire van team as HOCRN’s Volunteers of the Month. This group of committed drivers has kept the wheels turning—literally—for our community, giving their time, energy, and care to help neighbors get where they need to go. Among them is Steven Wiencek, who not only serves as a regular van driver but also takes on the critical role of scheduling. Steven coordinates with residents who call in for rides, making sure the system runs smoothly and efficiently. His patience and organizational skills keep everything on track, and his willingness to drive when needed shows the heart of true volunteerism. Alongside Steven, we also thank our other dedicated drivers—Rod, Travis, Gary, Duane, Kenneth and Chris. Each of them plays a vital role in keeping the shuttle service running. Together, this team has built something remarkable for Heber- Overgaard: a service that is both reliable and free of charge.
How the Shuttle Works
The HOCRN Van Shuttle operates on a structured weekly schedule designed to meet local and regional needs:
- Tuesdays and Thursdays: The van remains in Heber-Overgaard, providing rides within the community. For these local trips, we ask for 24 hours’ notice to ensure scheduling works smoothly.
- Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (as needed): The van travels to surrounding towns, including Snowflake, Taylor, Show Low, and Pinetop. Because these trips require more planning, we request 72 hours’ notice for
scheduling. - Important note: The shuttle does not travel to Payson or to the Valley. Perhaps the most remarkable part of all: there is no charge. The HOCRN Van Shuttle is completely free of cost, a true community service made possible by donations and the selfless work of our volunteers.
Guidelines for Riders
Because the van is a HOCRN vehicle operated by volunteers, there are a few simple requirements for those who ride:
- Riders must be ambulatory—able to get themselves to and from the van on their own. The van is not wheelchair accessible.
- Riders must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an adult.
- Rides must be scheduled in advance according to the notice requirements.
Where the Van Goes
Locally, the shuttle helps residents get to the places they need most: the senior center, their jobs, grocery shopping, banking, the post office, or even a hair appointment. Beyond Heber-Overgaard, the van has taken riders to Summit Healthcare or Change Point for medical appointments, Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center for vision care, Walmart for shopping, the Show Low Airport, and just about anywhere someone needs to go within the service area.
More Than Just a Ride
For those who rely on the shuttle, it is more than transportation. It is a lifeline. A ride to a doctor’s appointment in Show Low means peace of mind for an elderly neighbor. A trip to the grocery store in town means independence for someone without a vehicle. Even short local rides within Heber-Overgaard give residents a way to stay connected and engaged with the community. Behind the wheel, our volunteers do more than drive. They listen, they share stories, and they provide companionship. Sometimes the ride itself is as important as the destination.
Powered by Community Spirit
The shuttle’s success is a perfect example of what can happen when a community comes together. From the initial van donation by WorldMark by Wyndham, to the mechanic’s inspection, to every volunteer driver who steps up to serve, the program has been built on generosity, teamwork, and trust. It is also sustained by ongoing support. Donations help cover fuel, maintenance, and the occasional unexpected repair. Every dollar given directly helps keep the van on the road, serving neighbors who count on it.
Looking Ahead
As HOCRN celebrates Steven Wiencek and the entire Van Team as Volunteers of the Month, we are also looking toward the future. The need for transportation in rural communities like ours is not going away. In fact, it is growing. That is why we are always eager to welcome new volunteer drivers to join the team. There is also a vision for growth. HOCRN would love to see an additional van in the garage one day, ensuring we never have to turn down someone who needs a ride. With more volunteers and more resources, the possibilities expand—and so does the impact.
A Heartfelt Thank You
So today, we say thank you to Steven, Rod, Travis, Gary, Chris, Duane, and Kenneth, and every volunteer driver—as well as to everyone who has donated time, money, or resources to keep the HOCRN Van Shuttle Service moving. For over two years, you have made a dream into a reality, and your impact is felt every day in the lives of those you serve.
HOCRN recognizes the van drivers as our Community Volunteers of the Month for October 2025.
Volunteer Extraordinaire Amy Martin Brings Holiday Magic to Local Seniors and Families: September 2025
Every holiday season, one woman and her dedicated team of volunteers bring warmth, joy, and dignity to dozens of local seniors and families in the Heber-Overgaard community. That woman is Amy Martin, and her heartwarming initiatives—Senior Angels and Adopt-A- Family—have become beloved traditions fueled by generosity, compassion, and community spirit.
Senior Angels: Giving Back to Seniors
Each year, Amy collaborates with the Rim Country Senior Center and the Heber-Overgaard Community Food Bank to compile a list of seniors in need—individuals who could use a little extra holiday cheer. With the help of the Heber-Overgaard Community Resource Network (HOCRN) and support from individuals and organizations, Amy’s mission takes flight. To preserve the privacy of each recipient, the seniors are given festive aliases like Marilyn Monroe or John Wayne. These names are displayed on ornaments hanging from a special Christmas tree at HOCRN Thrift, where community members can “adopt” a Senior Angel by selecting a name and fulfilling specific wishes. From basics like toiletries, food, and pet supplies, to holiday treats such as nuts and chocolates sourced from the local Girl Scouts, and gift cards from local businesses, Amy ensures that each senior receives not just a gift, but a moment of joy. Thanks to the overwhelming support of the community, each household last year received $200 toward their electric bill, with even greater support planned for the 2025 season. Last year alone, Amy and her “army of elves” served 45 senior angels, a number that continues to grow. Her passion is the heartbeat of the program, and her dedication to helping others can be seen across the community.
Adopt-A-Family: Helping Local Families in Need
Amy also works closely with the local schools’ personnel to identify families who could use extra help at Christmas. The children’s ages, genders, and number of kids per household are grouped together, and community members are invited to “adopt” an entire family. Through the HOCRN Christmas Adopt-A-Family program, individuals, groups, and organizations step up —ensuring that no child wakes up empty-handed on Christmas morning.
Beyond the Holidays: Community Resource Day
Another of Amy’s pet projects is HOCRN’s annual community resource day, held each June at Tall Timbers Park. This event brings together more than 50 non-profit organizations serving the community. Attendees can walk around, learn about local resources, and enjoy lunch provided by HOCRN—all under Amy Martin’s leadership.
A Volunteer Always Within Reach
Although HOCRN has many other programs that may not be Amy’s direct responsibility, one thing is certain: she is always just a phone call away, ready to step in where help is needed. Whether through her past service on the HOCRN board, her volunteer hours at the senior center, or her work with the Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce, Amy leads by example and inspires others to give back.
If you would like to join Amy and countless others in making a difference, consider supporting HOCRN programs this holiday season. Together, we can ensure that no senior or family in our community is forgotten.
HOCRN recognizes Amy Martin as our Community Volunteer of the Month for September 2025.
The Alldredge Family: Celebrating, Serving, and Dancing Through Heber-
Overgaard: August 2025
For the Alldredge family, summer reunions are a cherished tradition. For over 25 years, their second home in the scenic community of Heber-Overgaard has been the heart of countless memories, but this year’s reunion brought something even more meaningful: a chance to give back to the place they love. Tony and Lorraine Alldredge, proud parents of 11 children and grandparents to 59 grandchildren, gathered with their extended family in early July for their annual summer gathering. While planning activities, the family felt a growing desire to find a way to serve the community that has been such a special part of their lives for decades.
Thanks to the vision of son-in-law Nathan Seaman, that desire quickly became a plan. Nathan proposed that the family participate in the 4th of July parade, not just to celebrate, but to contribute. The idea was simple but impactful: the Alldredges would be the final entry in the parade, dancing their way through the route with trash bags in hand, helping to clean up as they went. “It was the perfect mix of fun and service,” said Kristin Shaeffer, eldest child in the Alldredge family. “We wanted our kids and grandkids to feel connected to the community, not just as visitors, but as helpers.”
Decked out in red, white, and blue, the Alldredge family made their spirited way through the parade route, with music, laughter, and plenty of energy. From toddlers to grandparents, every family member took part—some dancing, some picking up trash, and all showing the kind of unity and joy that comes from strong family bonds and a shared purpose. Spectators were delighted by the display, cheering on the Alldredges as they swept up confetti, water bottles, and candy wrappers. More than just a cleanup crew, the family became a highlight of the parade—a moving celebration of patriotism, community spirit, and family values.
Tony and Lorraine watched with pride as their legacy unfolded before them. “To see our children and grandchildren working together, smiling, and giving back—it’s the kind of thing that reminds you what life is all about,” said Tony.
HOCRN is proud to recognize Tony and Lorraine Alldredge and their family as our Volunteer Group of the Month for August 2025.
HOSS: July 2025
In a powerful show of compassion and community strength, Heber-Overgaard Support Services (HOSS) recently held a heartfelt fundraiser in support of Paige Saye—a devoted mother, wife, and pharmacy manager—who is courageously facing Stage 4 cancer. Known for her kindness, dedication, and care for others, Paige has touched countless lives in the Heber-Overgaard area. Now, the community is giving that love and support right back.
HOSS, a local organization committed to helping individuals and families in need, organized a day filled with fundraising activities that brought residents together with one shared goal: to uplift the Saye family during this challenging time. From the sale of custom #PaigeStrong t-shirts to a lively barbecue, raffles, and prize drawings, the event overflowed with generosity, hope, and hometown pride. Local businesses, volunteers, and families rallied around Paige, offering donations, time, and encouragement. The funds raised will go directly toward supporting Paige’s medical care and providing relief for the family as they navigate the challenges ahead.
“HOSS was proud to bring the community together for someone who has always been there for others,” said one event volunteer. “Paige represents the very best of Heber-Overgaard, and we’re all standing with her in this fight.”
The success of the fundraiser is a testament not only to the tireless work of HOSS but also to the deep-rooted compassion of the Heber-Overgaard community. When one of their own is in need, this mountain town rises together—stronger, united, and filled with heart.
To learn more about HOSS and how you can support future efforts, follow their official HOSS website, or reach out to Wyatt Adams at 928-240-0771 or Jason Pedigo at 928-940-9066 to volunteer. Every act of kindness matters.
HOCRN recognizes HOSS as our Community Volunteer of the Month for July 2025.
Ray and Kathleen Brown: June 2025
- Photo Coming Soon
The Heber-Overgaard Community Resource Network (HOCRN) is proud to recognize Ray and Kathleen Brown of Show Low as our Volunteers of the Month for June 2025. Their unwavering commitment, generosity, and service to our community and many others across the White Mountains have made a lasting impact on countless lives.
Ray, a dedicated member of the Arizona Rangers, was present from the very beginning of HOCRN’s general meetings. His insight and input helped shape many of our early initiatives. More than just an attendee, Ray has been a constant behind-the-scenes support—always just a phone call away. Whether offering guidance or stepping in to fill a need, Ray has proven to be a true cornerstone of community support.
Both Ray and Kathleen provide valuable perspectives from the various charitable organizations they support. Their spirit of giving knows no bounds. From donating blankets for our Senior Angels program to providing gifts for our Christmas Adopt-a-Family initiative, the Browns consistently show up with open hearts and helping hands.
The Browns are involved in numerous organizations that benefit the region, including:
- White Mountain Helping Hands
- Show Low Main Street
- Arizona Children’s Charity
- Arizona Rangers, supporting local law enforcement and fire services
- Sirens and Sleighbells
- Navajo County School District
- Christmas Tree Project
- Cars for Single Moms Program
Their selfless contributions reflect the very best of what community service is all about. HOCRN is honored to recognize Ray and Kathleen Brown for their dedication, generosity, and quiet leadership. Thank you, Ray and Kathleen, for being a shining example of volunteerism in action.
Phyllis Ault: May 2025
Phyllis Ault, Director of the Rim Country Senior Center in Heber-Overgaard, Arizona, exemplifies community leadership through her unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of local seniors. Under her guidance, the center has become a cornerstone for Meals on Wheels, social activities, and health education in the community.
Ault’s commitment extends beyond administrative duties; she actively engages in fundraising and grant writing to support the center’s programs. Her initiatives, including craft fairs and spaghetti dinners, not only raise essential funds but also foster community spirit. These events have become anticipated gatherings, bringing residents together in support of a common cause.
Recognizing the growing need for senior services, Ault has been instrumental in expanding the Meals on Wheels program, ensuring that more homebound seniors receive nutritious meals and regular wellness checks. Her efforts have significantly improved the quality of life for many in the Heber-Overgaard area.
Through her leadership, Phyllis Ault has transformed the Rim Country Senior Center into a vibrant hub of support and camaraderie, reflecting her deep commitment to the well-being of her community’s seniors. HOCRN recognizes Phyllis Ault as our Community Volunteer of the Month for May 2025.
Lions Club: April 2025
The Ponderosa Lions Club proudly celebrates 45 years of dedicated service to the Heber-Overgaard Community in September 2025. Since its founding, the club has remained committed to improve the lives of residents, with a strong focus on supporting school-age children through vision and hearing screenings. In addition to its year-round efforts, the club hosts two major annual events that bring the community together. The annual Easter Egg Hunt (held the Saturday before Easter at Tall Timbers Park), is a beloved tradition that delights children and families with fun, prizes, and community spirit. Later in the year, the club organizes its annual fundraiser Casino Night (held the Friday of Labor Day weekend), an exciting evening that raises funds to support their programs and initiatives.
Importantly, all funds raised by the Ponderosa Lions Club stay within the Heber-Overgaard community, directly benefiting our local residents. As they celebrate this milestone anniversary, the Ponderosa Lions Club continues its mission of service, compassion, and community impact – one project at a time.
HOCRN recognizes the Ponderosa Lions Club as its Community Volunteer Organization of the month for April 2025.
Rosalie Mueller: March 2025
Since HOCRN’s inception in February 2022, Rosalie Mueller has been an invaluable asset to our organization. She played a key role in crafting essential documents and creating eye-catching ads and posters promoting our events and services. Rosalie’s dedication extends to managing our community help line, often volunteering over 150 hours a month to support those in need.
Her contributions were pivotal in launching our free community van shuttle service and organizing HOCRN’s 1st Annual Resource Day, which attracted over 500 attendees and showcased 50+ local nonprofits. Currently, Rosalie continues her volunteer efforts at the HOCRN thrift store.
Beyond HOCRN, Rosalie is an active volunteer with the Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce, Rim Country Senior Center, and Just 4 Kids, among others. We are proud to honor her as our volunteer of the month for March 2025. Thank you, Rosalie, for your unwavering support and dedication!
Encore Thrift Emporium: February 2025
ENCORE Thrift Emporium, better known as Macy’s on the Mountain, is one of four thrift store’s serving the Heber-Overgaard community. Staffed with long-term volunteers, the store is known for it’s quality merchandise at a reasonable price. The store is always clean, well merchandised, loaded with bargains, and staffed with the nicest people you will ever find. This long-standing non-profit funds the fine arts programs at our local schools, choir, band, orchestra, robotics, and the art program. You really owe it to yourself to attend one of the musical events put on by our local schools; you will be impressed by the talent. The Golden Mustang program, which is modeled after the Golden Rule (people should treat others as they would like to be treated), is also supported by Encore. And finally, graduates from our local Mogollon High School can apply for scholarships funded by Encore.
Carol Stant: January 2025
For most of us, we remember the television show Wonder Woman from the 1970’s, starring Lynda Carter in the role. Most recently Gal Gadot has taken the leading role, but here in the Heber-Overgaard community, we have our own wonder woman, and the star is Carol Stant. American Legion, Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce, HOCRN, Light-Hearted Ladies, Rim County Senior Center, and so many other non-profits have the privilege to call Carol Stant one of their volunteers. In a community boasting over 50 non-profit organizations, all operated by volunteers; someone has to organize events, and those fortunate enough to have Carol on the volunteer roster can expect magic. No one really knows how she does it, it just calmly gets taken care of and on the day of the event, everything runs like a well-oiled machine.
All Volunteers in Attendance: December 2024
HOCRN recognizes all the volunteers attending our December 2024 meeting as our Volunteers of the Month. We thank them for helping provide a merry Christmas to our Heber-Overgaard community. Heber-Overgaard is an unincorporated community in the White Mountains of northeastern of Arizona. Non-profit organizations, churches, and county agencies come together in a multitude of ways to ensure food, gifts and necessary essentials are provided to those in need to enjoy the holidays.
HOCRN takes pride in being a part of this giving community and thanks all volunteers for their contributions throughout the year and especially at the holidays. We wish you all a very merry Christmas.
Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce and Its President, Lynn Tricozzi: November 2024
Lynn’s ability to pull together volunteers and organize the masses makes it possible for our community to enjoy all of these great events.
The Heber-Overgaard Chamber of Commerce was established in 1975. The primary function of the chamber of commerce is to promote the interests of local businesses. The Chamber Board works diligently to host our community 4th of July Celebration, Oktoberfest, Trunk or Treat, and Winterfest. Each of these events brings the community together. The 4th of July Celebration and Oktoberfest are focused on attracting visitors to beautiful Heber-Overgaard. New to the chamber line-up is disc golf. The second Annual Heber Open Disc Golf Tournament will be held on May 10-11, 2025, at Tall Timbers Park. You can look at the chamber’s webpage for additional information on all their events. The chamber office includes a retail store offering Heber-Overgaard products, t-shirts, caps, sweatshirts, books, and other gift-related items. Locals and visitors are always welcome to stop by, shop and learn more about our community.
Ginger Reeves: October 2024
Ginger Reeves, the HOCRN Community Volunteer of the Month for October 2024, is one special lady.
For many years, Ginger was our local physician assistant (PA)
at the Summit Healthcare Clinic in Overgaard. It was Ginger’s professional knowledge, warm personality, and caring demeanor that provided her with a large following of patients at the clinic.
Ginger Reeves opens up her “All Season’s Barn” for community events. The barn is a charming, rustic venue for gatherings. HOCRN, Lions Club, HOSS and other community organizations have all utilized the barn for their larger community events.
Once we had decided to recognize Ginger and when we would be honoring her, everyone had a touching Ginger Reeves story. Whether it was compassion she had shown to a patient, helping with a wedding at the All Season’s Barn, taking time with a child, quietly supporting a local non-profit, or encouraging someone in need, Ginger has helped countless community members.
Ginger Reeves, thank you so much for all you have given and continue to give to your Heber-Overgaard community.
Future First Responders of America: September 2024
Future First Responders of America was recognized as the HOCRN Community Volunteer Group of the Month for September 2024.
FFRA offers a four-year program to train young men and women to be first responders of all kinds. Currently, FFRA has six units with a total of 120 cadets. The energetic cadets have racked up a whopping 3,700 volunteer hours in addition to spending time learning at the academy training center. Lori Wong is reasonable for this success.
HOCRN was so impressed with the level of commitment to volunteer from these cadets; HOCRN donated funds to sponsor four cadets in this training program.
The need for first responders continues to be a necessary service with natural disasters. Lori Wong, we applaud you and your cadets for their service to our White Mountain communities.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Relief Society and Local Representative Jacque Gurney: August 2024
The Relief Society is the oldest women’s organization in the church, starting in 1842. Their goals are to build strong women and build strong families. The society focuses on homelessness and Native American needs. Ladies from the Relief Society shared information on the success of their 3rd annual free back-to-school shopping day. The free shopping day had over 200 students participating, and participation was up over 30% from the previous year. The event was open to all Heber-Overgaard students and took place at Capps Middle School. Emergency preparedness classes are periodically sponsored by the group too. All persons are welcome to come and learn. We are fortunate to have Jacque Gurney and the Relief Society volunteers supporting our Heber-Overgaard community.