Everday Heroes - Union Observer Article from July 10, 2005

Posted on Sun, Jul. 10, 2005 in the Union Observer

Everyday Heroes

Rachel Chilcot

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Community volunteer

MOTTO: "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always gotten." (Also one of her dad's favorite sayings.)

AGE: 21.

HOMETOWN: Orlando, Fla.; has lived in Weddington for about 16 years, but is currently living in Raleigh as a student.

HER WORK: Volunteers for Meals On Wheels in the Raleigh area every  Wednesday and received the Ellen Brewer Community Service award this year for her work with the non-profit group; previously volunteered at a local center for developmental disabilities; while working toward her Bachelor of Science degree in foods and nutrition at Meredith College (which she earned in May) she participated in the MeredithReads literacy programs and served as president of the Campus Activities Board and the Meredith Recreation Association; recipient of the Sophie Lanneau Silver Leaf and Gold Leaf awards for leadership; also has served in various other capacities in various organizations, including the Meredith Nutrition and Wellness Association; helped start a literacy program in Belize during a spring break trip; currently taking classes to earn a registered dietitian license.

WHY SHE DOES IT: She became involved with Meals On Wheels through one of her instructors and says her clients have become her adopted grandparents. "If you saw the smiles on their faces when you come to bring them their meal, you realize that you are wanted there because they love having visitors. This isn't lunch for most of them. It is contact with someone that they can share their story and life with. They are the most amazing people."

WHAT OTHERS SAY: "She's compassionate, she's caring, insightful, intuitive. She truly is what I would want a student to be who is leaving academics and going into practice."

-- Dr. Susan Fisher of the Didactic Program in Dietetics.

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WHO'S YOUR HERO?

Know of someone who should be spotlighted as a Union Observer Everyday Hero? Please tell us who and why and give us a way to get in touch with you. Call us at (704) 289-6576, fax (704) 289-4669 or e-mail unionobs@charlotteobserver.com. Our mailing address: Everyday Heroes Union Observer 132 S. Main St. Monroe, NC 28112