04/17/2026
What’s Your Why?
The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) is proud to recognize National Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 19-25, honoring the dedicated individuals who give their time, compassion, and purpose in service to Veterans.
As part of National Volunteer Appreciation week, OVAHCS is encouraging volunteers to reflect on “What’s Your Why”, the personal motivation behind their service to Veterans. Across the Orlando VA volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the Veteran experience through connection, support, and care.
“Every volunteer has a story and a reason that brings them here,” said Cristina Mercado Acevedo, Chief of the Center for Development and Civic Engagement. “We see that dedication in volunteers like Fredrick Holmes, who at 90 years old continues to serve and has contributed more than 50,000 hours, ranking third in the nation! Their ‘why’ becomes part of something much bigger, and the impact they make is felt by Veterans and staff every day.”
For many, that purpose is deeply personal.
After receiving care through the Orlando VA, volunteer Nestor Serrano found his reason to give back.
“As a Veteran, I was exposed to many illnesses during multiple deployments. I was treated here at Lake Nona through our DOM program,” Serrano said. “Once I completed treatment and was released, I wanted to find a way to give back to the facility that restored my life. I discovered our Volunteer Office, now known as CDCE, and I began volunteering there 10 years ago. I’ve never looked back.”
Read more here: https://www.va.gov/orlando-health-care/news-releases/whats-your-why-ovahcs-celebrates-national-volunteer-appreciation-week/
