TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — At Project Annie in Frenchtown, Annie Johnson and her group of volunteers have been working throughout the pandemic to feed the people that need it the most.
"I think I'm doing a pretty good job," said Johnson.
At last week's Leon County commission meeting, Johnson was honored as a Volunteer Champion. She's been giving out hot meals three Saturdays each month while also running a free community food pantry.
"They appreciate the work that I'm doing, and they decided to recognize me for it. It made me feel good," said Johnson.
County Commissioner Rick Minor recalls the idea came at the end of 2020. The board wanted to recognize those in the community who have been working tirelessly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Our volunteer champions give us an opportunity to highlight people that are seeing that need and then jumping right to it to address that gap," said Minor.
Another organization meeting in need is Sustainable Tallahassee. The non-profit has been making masks for their community. More than 200 volunteers have answered the call, making masks from their homes.
"We ended up with 15,000 masks that we gave away," said Sanford.
Peggy Sanford, who was recognized as the first Volunteer Champion, said she didn't think twice about stepping up for her community.
"I'm proud we were able to give some folks a way of feeling involved and wanting to do something," said Sanford.
Another volunteer champion will be recognized at the next County Commission meeting on March 9.
