Each year, Food City recognizes outstanding volunteerism among their dedicated team of associates through the Claude P. Varney Volunteer Recognition Program.
“As a company, we’re committed to giving back to the communities we serve, while providing a work environment that enables our associates to grow both personally and professionally as successful members of our team,” said Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. “Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents in service of charitable organizations throughout the region and we’re proud to recognize their efforts.”
The program is named in memory of Food City’s beloved former president and board vice-chairman of 47 years, Claude P. Varney, who was well-known for his tremendous compassion and humanitarian services. An independent panel of judges review associate nominations. Winners are selected based upon outstanding achievements in the areas of health, education, environment, cultural arts, recreational, heritage/history and public service. One winner is selected from each Food City store. The field is then narrowed to thirteen district winners, followed by two divisional winners, and the overall recipient of the Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award.
Michael Thomas of Abingdon and Sarah Fennell of Blaine, Tennessee, were named this year’s division winners.
Thomas serves as the Dry Warehouse Team Leader for the Food City Distribution Center in Abingdon. He is a 12-year volunteer firefighter for the Adwolfe Volunteer Fire Department in Marion, where he dedicates hundreds of hours annually. Thomas joined the fire department at the age of 18, following in the footsteps of his father, who was a firefighter for more than 40 years. As a volunteer firefighter, Thomas responds to various types of calls, including house and woodland fires and motor vehicle accidents. He assists local EMS agencies, helps with station upkeep and building/grounds maintenance, and assists with weekly station events, as well as special community events. Thomas also attends bi-monthly training sessions to continue to further his training, skills, and knowledge.
“I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve my community. The volunteer fire department has given me the opportunity to help people during their greatest time of need,” says Thomas.
Fennell serves as Customer Service Coordinator for the Food City in Blaine. In addition to working a full-time job at the Bean Station Police Department and part-time at Food City, she assists numerous organizations throughout her community. Fennell is a 16-year volunteer with tnAchieves, assisting high school seniors in obtaining books, completing Free Application for Federal Student Aid and other college admission applications, and encouraging students to remain in school. She has volunteered with Grainger County 4-H for more than 35 years, working with 4th and 5th graders to assist with club meetings, learning projects, and teaching life skills. Fennell has worked with the Grainger County Tomato Festival for the past
25 years, helping showcase agriculture, talent, and business within the county. She designs vendor applications, festival maps, ensures vendors have available booth space, and serves as treasurer and commerce and craft chairman for the festival. Fennell is also a 35-year volunteer with Grainger County Farm Bureau Women, advocating home agriculture and farming, assisting with monthly planning, agricultural event demonstrations, and helping to develop local businesses.
“It is a tremendous horror to receive the Claude Varney award. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, make friends, and help others while giving back to my community. I really appreciate Food City allowing their employees the opportunity to enter this contest and for the support they provide to the community,” says Fennell.
Both division winners will be recognized for their outstanding achievements and Food City is making a $750 contribution on their behalf to the charity of their choice.
“We’re extremely proud of the difference our associates make in their community by devoting their time and talents in the service of others,” said Smith.
