In a world where kindness often feels like a scarce resource, Jackie Pope serves as a beautiful example of how we can all find kindness and compassion within ourselves. With her unwavering commitment to serving others, Jackie volunteered at the Mississippi Multiple Sclerosis Society as treasurer and project manager, served at the American Cancer Society, and was on the board for the Back Bay Mission organization. But for the past 25 years, Jackie has dedicated her time and energy to the Special Olympics Mississippi Summer Games at Keesler Air Force Base, leaving a lasting impact on athletes, families, and volunteers alike. In a recent interview, Military Spouse Magazine sat down with Jackie as she shares her story, her passion for service, and her hopes for the future of volunteerism. Jackie’s father was on active duty in the Air Force while she was growing up, she joined the civil service in 1985, and then she married an active-duty Airman in 1990.
A Journey of Service
Jackie’s involvement with the Special Olympics began in 1998 when she took on the role of installation volunteer coordinator at the Family Support Center. With a heart full of compassion and a desire to make a difference, she eagerly embraced the opportunity to oversee volunteers for the Summer Games.
The Heartbeat of the Summer Games
Over the years, Jackie’s role evolved, and she soon found herself assisting in the overall planning and execution of the Summer Games. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental in ensuring the success of this beloved event, which has become a cherished tradition for both the base and the local community.
Joy in Giving Back
When asked about her motivation to volunteer with the Special Olympics for so many years, Jackie’s answer is simple yet profound: “Seeing the pure joy and excitement on the faces of the athletes who come to compete keeps me motivated.” For Jackie, the most rewarding aspect of her volunteer work is the lifelong friendships she has made with athletes, parents, and fellow volunteers.
Moments of Impact
Jackie reflects on the countless memorable moments she has experienced while volunteering with the Summer Games, from receiving bear hugs at the finish line to sharing heartfelt conversations with athletes. Each interaction serves as a reminder of the transformative power of kindness and connection.
A Ripple Effect of Compassion
Jackie believes that the impact of the Special Olympics extends far beyond the athletes themselves, providing families with respite care and fostering a sense of community and belonging. She encourages anyone hesitant to get involved to embrace the inclusive spirit of the organization and experience the joy of serving others firsthand.
Servant Leadership in Action
As a firm believer in servant leadership, Jackie emphasizes the importance of giving of oneself for the betterment of others. She has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of volunteerism and hopes to inspire the next generation of leaders and volunteers to carry on the legacy of service.
Balancing Act
Balancing her volunteer work with other responsibilities in her life has been a challenge, but Jackie has found fulfillment in her role as Director of the Military & Family Readiness Center at Keesler AFB. With a supportive staff and a shared passion for the Special Olympics, Jackie navigates the demands of her dual roles with grace and dedication.
A Legacy of Kindness
Looking ahead, Jackie’s hopes and goals for the future are simple yet profound: to inspire the next generation to embrace the value of volunteerism and kindness. As she aptly puts it, “Kindness inspires kindness,” and by leading with love and compassion, we can create a brighter, more inclusive world for all.
Jackie Pope’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they choose to serve others with an open heart and a willingness to make a difference. As we celebrate her legacy of kindness and compassion, let us be inspired to find our own gifts and share them with the world, one act of service at a time. Citing that her experience in civil service has been more rewarding than challenging, she credits her time serving for her strong community ties, tight knit connections, and desire to give back.
An Inspiring Call to Action
As we concluded our interview, Jackie offered an inspiring word of encouragement for our military community. For those of us who struggle to find time or motivation to serve, or for those of us who aren’t sure if we belong, Jackie had a sweet word of advice. “When you have a skill set or a knack for something, giving your time can be a worthy and joyful thing. But most importantly, opening your heart changes the world.” So there it is, folks. May we be a community defined by compassion and driven by our hearts to serve one another because, at the end of the day, has the potential to transform it all.