For over 26 years, the Shepherd’s Center of Greenbrier Valley has been enriching lives across our region — helping aging adults live more independently, fostering lifelong learning, and connecting neighbors through meaningful volunteer service. Now, they’re inviting the entire community to be part of something special.
Join the Celebration – and the Mission – on June 29
On Sunday, June 29 at 1:00 PM, the Lewis Theatre in downtown Lewisburg will host the Shepherd’s Center of Greenbrier Valley Community Service Award (CSA) Kickoff Event — a casual, family-friendly afternoon filled with connection, inspiration, and entertainment.
This free event serves as the exciting prelude to the Shepherd’s Center’s biggest fundraiser of the year: the 2025 Community Service Award Luncheon, set for September 16. Every year, the Community Service Award honors individuals who exemplify the core values of the Shepherd’s Center: Lifelong Learning, Service to Others, and Spiritual Growth.
Past recipients have included physicians, volunteers, and community champions — people who uplift others through quiet commitment and open-hearted leadership. At the kickoff, this year’s CSA recipient(s) will be officially announced, and attendees will get a glimpse of what makes their stories so deserving of honor.
But it’s more than a name reveal. It’s a chance to dive into the heart of the Shepherd’s Center’s mission — and discover how you can make a real difference.
“Greenbrier County is a deeply generous place,” says Executive Director Sarah Moloney. “We serve older adults in primarily Greenbrier, but also some in Monroe, and Summers counties, and with so few local organizations dedicated solely to this population, we fill a critical gap.”
She adds, “Social isolation and loneliness have become growing public health concerns in recent years. I think that is something we’re really trying to combat through all of our programs and relationship building. So, I would encourage people to look outside themselves and support their neighbors – we’re all in this together.”
Why It Matters
In 2024 alone, the Shepherd’s Center:
- Delivered 8,500+ meals through Gwen’s Meals, including wellness checks and friendly visits.
- Installed an accessibility ramp and helped with small home improvement projects via Handy Helpers.
In an average year, the Shepherd’s Center handles over 1,000 calls, around 200 referrals and information requests, and 40 transportation requests.
Beyond services, the Center fosters connection and lifelong learning through:
- Adventures in Learning (spring/fall classes)
- Lunch and Learn events
- Exercise programs like chair yoga and water aerobics
- Book club events, Coffee Talk, and adventure travel
It’s an enduring testament to the lasting impact just one person can have. When one becomes many, great things happen.
The Power of Volunteers
Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month, the Shepherd’s Center has opportunities for you to lend a hand. Every role matters.
Board members and current volunteers will be on hand at the event to share what they do, why they do it, and how you can get involved. Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Shepherd’s Center. Whether you want to prepare or deliver meals, provide rides, serve on a board or committee, or even lead a class — there’s a place for you. You’ll also get a chance to learn about speaking at events.
A Summer Afternoon with Purpose – and Popcorn
Along with announcing this year’s CSA honorees, the Kickoff includes a free movie screening, open to the public. The lobby will be buzzing with conversation, information tables, and a celebration of service.
“Admission is free,” Moloney adds, “and everybody gets popcorn!”
For more information, call 304-645-4196, email info@scgvwv.org, or visit scgvwv.org. You can also follow the Shepherd’s Center of Greenbrier Valley on Facebook for updates.
