02/24/2026
At Chippenham and Johnston-Willis Hospitals, community engagement isn’t something we do — it’s who we are.
Every day, we care for our neighbors inside our hospitals. But our commitment doesn’t stop at our doors. From health screenings and educational seminars to supporting local nonprofits and animal shelters and partnering with area schools, we believe stronger communities build healthier futures.
“Volunteering makes me feel full.” This was the answer given by Meredith Licata, our 2025 Top Volunteer for Chippenham and Johnston-Willis Hospitals when asked what she gets out of volunteering.
A flight paramedic for HCA Virginia’s Air Care Eagle Medical helicopter team, Meredith logged 1,032 hours of volunteering last year with Beagles and Bentleys, a Richmond-based, 501(c)(3) all-breed animal rescue. That’s more than 25 full workweeks spent giving dogs a second chance at life.
Her passion for animal welfare started early, working with the Equine Rescue League as a teenager. What began as a desire to show suffering animals “the love and goodness that can exist in the world” grew into something deeper — a commitment to being a voice for the voiceless.
There wasn’t one defining moment that sparked her dedication. Instead, it was a collection of small ones — seeing animals in need online and deciding to stop scrolling and start acting. Inspired by the quote by Edward Everett Hale, “I am only one, but I am one… I will not refuse to do the something that I can do,” Meredith chose to step up and ask, Why not me?
That mindset led her to Beagles and Bentleys after helping a neglected neighborhood dog named Blue. When she reached out asking for medical support and offering to foster him, the rescue said “yes” without hesitation. Blue found an incredible home — and Meredith found her community. She became a foster, volunteer, and eventually a board member, helping guide the organization’s growth.
And her impact goes far beyond fostering.
In 2025, Meredith helped transition Beagles and Bentleys to a centralized online record management system — streamlining adopter applications, foster coordination, communication, and data tracking. The result? Greater efficiency and the ability to help even more dogs.
When asked what keeps her going, her answer is simple:
“This isn’t a chore… helping these animals is a privilege.”
Thank you, Meredith, for showing up — again and again — for animals who need someone to say yes. You inspire others to show up and you fill countless lives with hope.