By Virginia Lascara
virginia.lascara@insidebiz.com
Elsie Harris, an electrical systems designer at Dominion Power, recently won the company's Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteering.
This is no surprise to those who know Harris best; giving back to the community is her way of life. In 2001, Dominion Power honored Harris as the Volunteer of the Year.
Now, 13 years later, the 39-year employee continues to serve the community, donating her time, money and effort to people in need in Hampton Roads.
"Maybe I'll get another award in another 13 years," Harris said with a chuckle.
Harris, for the second time, chose St. Mary's Home in Norfolk to receive a $1,000 check from Dominion Power, part of the award.
She fell in love with St. Mary's after giving tours of the residential care facility dedicated to helping children and young adults with severe physical and intellectual disabilities.
She admits volunteers can do little to change the fate of the children of St. Mary's but "just being in their presence means a lot to them," Harris said.
Her granddaughter, Paige Beavers, works as a licensed practical nurse at St. Mary's.
"We've known [Harris] for a number of years," said Sonja Barisic, director of marketing communications at St. Mary's. "She does a lot, so her granddaughter working here is just the icing on the cake."
Her passion for volunteering is shared by her co-workers, who regularly volunteer with her.
"We feel that because we work within the community, it's only fair to give back to the community," Harris said. "As long as I have a job, I will volunteer."
After work and on the weekends she volunteers at retirement homes, homeless shelters and elementary schools.
Even when she isn't volunteering on-site, her altruistic attitude can be seen in her daily activities.
"There are so many little things you can do to help people," she said.
This past Veterans Day, Harris and her granddaughter held a cookout and gave free meals to veterans, gratefully serving those who served their country.
"You just feel so bad about the veterans having to wait such a long time for the care they deserve," Harris said.
The Virginia Beach Dominion Power office collects supplies for veterans and holiday supplies for children.
Each year Harris attends post-Christmas sales to buy coats and gloves for children who otherwise might go without.
No matter what time of year, she maintains a giving spirit.
"When I'm at the grocery store buying dinner, what does it matter that I buy an extra dinner and give it to an elderly neighbor," Harris said. "I might not have a lot of money, but it doesn't take a lot to do something for others."
This fits perfectly with her mantra - it's the little things that matter.
"I do it because I can. And it makes me happy."?