TRIAD AmeriCorps Recognizes Members Dedicated to Community Service

Over the past several months, TRIAD AmeriCorps members have been responsible for giving nutrition trainings for high school students and other community members in the Hattiesburg and Gulf Coast areas through the HealthMatters curriculum. 

TRIAD, a national service program funded through Volunteer Mississippi, is administered through The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies (IDS). By including young Mississippians with and without developmental and intellectual disabilities, IDS is supporting an inclusive service community. 

Continuing a tradition, TRIAD recognizes members and the services they have provided during the 2018-2019 program year. Through their tremendous service, the young people in TRIAD have made a great impact on the lives of others, especially in Hattiesburg community. 

With a year of service under his belt, Cole Stanberry was chosen as July's shining star. Stanberry developed meaningful relationships with many new and unique people. Some of his interests include video games, music, and sports, basketball being his favorite. He was always willing to assist in providing community-based recreational activities. 

Antonio Norwood, featured in August, found a new love in being involved with various activities throughout the community. For six years, Norwood committed his time and creativity specifically to the STEP-UP Advisory Council. Showing great interest in writing and photography, he consistently created memorable and candid moments of providing service. 

For September, TRIAD recognized Aaron George. This member always provided a little cheer for everyone throughout the office. George was also active in an on-campus group called The Strange Monkeys. He developed relationships with many new people and made lasting impressions with everyone he met. 

Maxwell "Max" Doherty, October's member spotlight, showed a huge commitment to community service during his time here. He loved visiting the animal shelter and St. Andrew's thrift store. However, his favorite service activity was going out to the schools and informing the students with disabilities of the importance of healthy lifestyles.

Racheal Barnes, a dedicated member of TRIAD AmeriCorps for seven years, was highlighted during November. One of her greatest accomplishments was being recognized by Gov. Phil Bryant in the past for her volunteer work. She enjoys listening to music, cooking, and hanging out with her friends and family. 

Full of spirit and such a huge personality, Kahla Myers was acknowledged as December's “Member of the Month.” Myers enjoys managing her own YouTube vlog titled “Relentless.” With two years of service, Myers has enjoyed the inclusive TRIAD AmeriCorps program. With such a graceful smile, Myers has made an impact and promoted the many benefits of service and volunteerism.

Bringing in the new year, member Matthew Andersen stole the spotlight for January 2019.  Andersen has been a part of TRIAD AmeriCorps since 2017. He admires the program for putting forth such a great effort in assisting individuals with disabilities. Playing video games, watching action and horror movies, and listening to music are his favorite past time activities. 

For more information about the TRIAD AmeriCorps Program or any of the services provided by the Institute for Disability Studies at USM, call 601.266.5163 or visit: https://www.usm.edu/disability-studies.