Photo courtesy of the City of Jackson Mayor's Office
West Tennessee Healthcare’s Director of Corporate Health and Wellness Shelley Hayes has been selected as Hub City Hero for the month of November.
Hayes, a member of the Old Hickory Rotary Club, has been instrumental in the Rotary Heart and Soul project established in August of 2019 which is a fundraiser designed to put shoes on the feet of students in the Jackson-Madison County School System. Through partnering with Samaritan’s Feet shoe recipients received a pair of new shoes and socks and had their feet washed by Rotarians and community leaders and volunteers.
In 2019, the three clubs, in partnership with Samaritan’s Feet, collectively distributed 1400 pairs of new athletic shoes and socks to students at Arlington Elementary, Andrew Jackson Elementary, and Alexander Elementary.
“In 2017, I was informed about a need for shoes in the Jackson-Madison County School System (JMCSS) – I made it my mission at that very moment to help figure out how to raise money to put shoes on the feet of children in the JMCSS,” said Hayes. “As a Rotarian, I felt like this need; along, with the mission of Samaritan’s Feet aligned with the motto of all Rotarians – “Service above self.” Therefore, I presented this project to our three local clubs and Rotary made this mission a reality! Together the three Rotary Clubs of Jackson have raised enough money to put shoes on the feet of all the children in three inter-city schools In Jackson TN.”
Hayes, a graduate of South Side High School, Jackson State Community College and Union University, is married to her husband Nick. Hayes is a Leadership Jackson Alum and has received multiple civic awards including 2020-2021 Rotary District 6760 District Volunteer Service Award, 2020-2021 Rotary District 6760 Service Above Self Award, and August 2020 Jefferson Award.
“Hub City Heroes are individuals who see a need in our community and take the necessary actions to meet that need,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “Shelley’s ‘Service Above Self’ mindset is what makes her a hero.”
“Hub City Heroes” selflessly and steadily give of their time and talent to improve the lives of others in the community. Recognition as a hero is one small way to thank these public servants for their efforts and it gives honorees the opportunity to raise awareness for causes that are important to them.
Criteria
- Committed to improving the quality of life of others in Jackson
- Contributes time to community activities in a volunteer capacity
- Serves as a role model and inspiration to others
- Focuses on growth and well-being of the community we serve
- Empowers and engages others to give back
- Demonstrates integrity, collaboration, innovation and respect
Recipients will be selected monthly and nominations are continuous. To nominate a hero, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov. Candidates must be a resident of Jackson, Tennessee
After a year of heroes have been recognized, one hero will be selected and awarded $1,000 to donate to a non-profit of their choice. For more information, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov.