PARIS — In honor of National Volunteer Month this April, UScellular is recognizing its associates who go above and beyond to support their communities. Valerie Foss of Paris was one of 10 UScellular associates who have been awarded the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award by the Office of the President of the United States for dedicating more than 200 hours to volunteerism in 2024.

Foss has volunteered more than 330 hours between Blueberry Mountain Bible Camp and Moss Brook Community Church. At Blueberry Mountain Camp, a camp that works with children from 7 to 18, teaching outdoor survival skills and learning about nature, Foss uses her vacation time to volunteer at the summer camp. As the head cook, she spends 14 hours a day in the kitchen, cooking for more than 70 kids and staff. At Moss Brook Church, Foss supports many community outreach programs, including gathering wood and oil donations for families during the cold winter months, providing gifts for families during the holidays, and helping with warming rooms for the homeless.

“Volunteering is so rewarding,” said Valerie Foss, assistant store manager at UScellular in Paris. “It can be difficult to carve out the time to volunteer; however, when you are intentional about making the time and are passionate about the organization, you will make it happen. You are helping others and enriching their lives, and there is nothing better than seeing a smile on someone’s face, knowing you helped put it there.”

Since 2022, UScellular associates’ volunteerism has been recognized with President’s Volunteer Service Awards. Two of this year’s honorees are first-time President’s Volunteer Service Award recipients, including Valerie Foss, while eight associates are multi-year recipients.

“The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a testament to the incredible generosity and dedication of our associates,” said Kyle Burbine, director of sales and operations for UScellular in New England. “Valerie’s commitment to giving back is truly inspiring, and we are proud to support and celebrate her for her volunteer efforts.”

UScellular is committed to fostering a culture of service and offers a range of programs for associates, including associate donation matching, Dollars for Doers grants for volunteerism, and skills-based volunteer opportunities.