Melodee Lovett is a Health Science student at Georgia State University and a Medicare Concierge Specialist at Molina Healthcare. She describes herself as joyful, dedicated and caring. As a member of the Hands On Atlanta Civic Leadership Program, serving with our Discovery program, we’ve had a chance to get to know Melodie over the last year and agree - she’s a dedicated volunteer who’s an absolute joy to be around!

Get to know Melodie, her passion for service, and how volunteering is helping her build her own community.  

What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?

Some of the most impactful needs that I care about most revolve around basic human necessities like access to clean water, food security, healthcare - access to care, education, and shelter. These needs are crucial for individuals and communities to thrive and reach their full potential. I care about these pressing needs because addressing these fundamental needs can lead to significant improvements in people's quality of life, reduce inequalities, and foster sustainable development. Additionally, meeting these needs can contribute to building more resilient and inclusive societies. Having access to basic human necessities help shape the everyday life of people.

What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?

What I love most about Hands On Atlanta, including Civic Leadership program I am in, is that there is always something to "Do Something Good" and volunteer opportunities are just a click away. With this organization you can see what impact Hands On Atlanta has on the community and the work speaks for itself. I've met so many awesome people along the way and we all share a common interest of servicing our community. Hands On Atlanta is home where I can add my value for civic engagement in the community.

How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?

Volunteering has greatly impacted my personal/professional life. Sharing stories and even bringing others along to do something great in the community has been done through just by leading by example. Building relationships with fellow volunteers and the people I'm serving has led to new opportunities and friendships. Through volunteering it has increased my fulfillment and I know my purpose is to serve others and give back. I'm a Pre-Nursing Student and I have a passion for helping others, with volunteering it has opened my eyes to see that my calling aligns with my purpose to serve others and lend a helping hand.

What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?

Throughout my volunteering experience, it has broadened my perspective and exposed me to new experiences and introduced me to great people! I've found that I'm open for all lines of volunteer work whether it be food insecurity, environmental conservation or working with students through the Hands On Atlanta Discovery program. It's always work that needs to be done and it's something good that comes out of each task. I've learned that I could fit in anywhere to improve the dynamic of society. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?

One of my most memorable highlights was completing a volunteer session at Scott Elementary School and being able to actually see the progress with the children working with them two Saturdays out of the month. The students would tell me "I love Saturday school; I wish it could be forever!”

My confirmation was when one of the parents of the students text the Coordinator of the Discovery Program to express her daughter's excitement for Saturday school and she even had her siblings come and join sessions they enjoyed as well. That made my heart smile because knowing that I can make an impact in their life just by showing up and engaging with the is heartwarming. I believe that the children are the future and instilling greatness in them is important.

Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people,places, things to do, etc.

Originally from Decatur, GA, Atlanta is my second home where I attend college and many of my volunteer sessions are in Atlanta. Attending Georgia State University right in the heart of the city exposed me to the greatness of Atlanta. Some of my favorite things to do in the city is volunteer at different events and attend many concerts and basketball games at State Farm Arena to see my favorite musicians live. My roots are in Atlanta my grandmother is a retired LPN opened up the Burn Unit at THEE Grady Memorial Hospital, and my grandfather is a retired Atlanta Lieutenant Sheriff.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting involved with volunteering?

As a start to volunteering understand your why, core values and what you bring to the table look for opportunities where you can add value. Choose something you're passionate about whether it's food insecurity, environmental conservation, animal welfare, education, or helping the homeless - find a cause that resonates with you. Look for volunteer organizations that align with your interests and availability to build your civic brand.

Please list anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!

My passion for service is like a guiding light, illuminating the path toward making a positive difference in the lives of others and in my community. It's a driving force that fuels my desire to give back, to contribute, and to be of service which resonate deeply in me. Through volunteering, I not only make a tangible impact but also inspire others to join in creating a brighter, more compassionate world. I enjoy getting out and being the change I want to see.

I live by this quote “Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, and how you leave others feeling after an experience with you becomes your trademark ~Jay Danzie.

As for me I will continue to lead with a servant's heart in volunteering and approaching every opportunity with a genuine desire to serve others embodying humility, empathy, and compassion in all interactions.