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Volunteer Spotlight

Volunteers are the lifeblood of First Coral Gables, bringing our mission to life through their dedication and service. From welcoming guests and tidying spaces, to leading ministries and supporting outreach programs, every act of service strengthens our faith community. A volunteer’s willingness to serve helps us share God’s love and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the unseen heroes of First Coral Gables!

The Rewards of Volunteering: A Conversation with Cheryl Akerman

Volunteering is often seen as a noble act of giving, but for Cheryl Akerman, it is a profound and joyful way to serve both God and her community. A dedicated volunteer in multiple church and school initiatives, Cheryl embodies the true spirit of service. Through her work with the Altar Guild, The Growing Place School, Vacation Bible School, and various outreach ministries, she has touched countless lives —and found deep personal fulfillment.

For Cheryl, volunteering is more than just a commitment—it is a calling. “It gives me great pleasure to serve God. I serve God by serving others,” she shares. Growing up in a family that valued faith and service, Cheryl was deeply influenced by her parents. Her father was a deacon, and her mother worked in a church office, setting a strong example of servanthood that Cheryl carries forward in her own life.

Dispelling the Myths About Volunteering

One of the most common misconceptions about volunteering, Cheryl explains, is the fear that it will be overwhelming. “People think they’ll be thrown into a job with very little help and that volunteering is a huge effort. In actuality, the opposite is true.” Volunteers often find themselves surrounded by supportive communities, working together toward a common goal. The shared sense of purpose and camaraderie make the experience both rewarding and fun.

The Joy of Making a Difference

Among the many volunteer roles Cheryl has taken on, one of the most rewarding has been serving as a volunteer speech pathologist for Kindergarten students. For the past eight years, she has helped young children overcome speech impediments, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of patient guidance and encouragement. “Seeing a child begin to overcome a stutter or another speech impediment, just over the course of one year, feels very good,” she says.

Beyond her work in speech pathology, Cheryl also finds joy in numerous other activities, from baking cookies for the Kairos Prison Ministry to calling homebound seniors to check on their well-being. Whether she’s tidying the sanctuary, sending Christmas cards to seniors, packaging meals for Rise Against Hunger, or leading games at Vacation Bible School, each act of service reinforces her belief that volunteering is a meaningful way to express faith and love.

A Life Enriched by Service

Cheryl’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the many rewards of volunteering. Through her dedication, she not only enriches the lives of others but also experiences the deep fulfillment that comes from making a difference. Her journey reminds us that service is not just about giving—it is about growing, connecting, and finding joy in helping others.

For those considering volunteering, Cheryl’s advice is simple: don’t be afraid to take the first step. The support and rewards you will receive in return make the effort more than worthwhile. After all, as Cheryl’s life demonstrates, the greatest fulfillment often comes from the act of serving others.