Volunteer of the Week -- Tuesday, June 19, 2007

The Lynchburg News and Advance

Name: Keith Kervin

Age: 24

Volunteers at: Lynchburg Grows, 1339 Englewood St., near City Stadium.

Frequency: Five hours a day, Tuesday through Saturday

How Long: Three years

What it is: Lynchburg Grows is a 6 1/2-acre urban farm with 2 acres under glass in greenhouses. Since 2003, the nonprofit organization has been growing vegetables, which are then sold to the community. The mission of Lynchburg Grows is to help disadvantaged people enjoy the healthy benefits of gardening.

Duties: Kervin picks weeds and makes compost. On Saturday mornings, Kervin works at the Community Market and sells vegetables at the Lynchburg Grows stand.

Favorite part: “You can get your hands dirty,” Kervin said. Also, Kervin said he likes picking weeds and hanging out with the other volunteers. Michael Van Ness, the executive director of Lynchburg Grows, said Kervin is best at helping people carry their vegetables to their cars.

When he’s not volunteering: Kervin washes dishes at Liberty University. He pointed out the summer is a slow time at the university, so he likes to volunteer at Lynchburg Grows.

Want to volunteer? All ages are welcome, but children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent. There are volunteering opportunities available to everyone regardless of age or ability. Contact Lynchburg Grows at 846-5665, e-mail volunteer@lynchburggrows.org or visit www.lynchburggrows.org.