Twin sisters Brenda and Linda Spencer have been giving back and working to make Greenbrier County a kinder, better place for over a half a century. In fact, there’s hardly a part of this region where these two haven’t left their loving mark with their meaningful projects.
For decades the sisters have touched many lives in their combined 67 years of teaching elementary school. The creativity and hard work they contribute side-by-side volunteering with the Bluebell Garden Club, Carnegie Guild, America in Bloom, Chapter F-P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization), and the Lewisburg United Methodist Church mark their dedication to build better lives and a stronger community.
About 13 years ago, these joy-filled identical twins began also giving their time and talent to Shepherd’s Center of Greenbrier Valley. Over those years, their dedication has changed not only the Shepherd’s Center family, but most importantly, the lives of countless older adults the pair have assisted.
“It’s such a worthwhile program that helps so many people in so many ways,” says Brenda. “Seeing the smiles light up their faces when we show up with meals is just priceless,” Linda adds.
“It’s really no wonder that the Spencers were selected to receive Shepherd’s Center 2019 Community Service Award,” says Teresa Bostic, Shepherd’s Center Executive Director. “These are two remarkable women who have done so much for families in our region. Their passion for giving back in Greenbrier Valley is unparalleled.”
“We are so humbled by this honor,” the sisters said. “But truly, we are really the ones who are blessed, for it is so much more rewarding to be the server than the served.”
Shepherd’s Center officially announced their 2019 Community Service Award Recipients with a reception at the Greenbrier Valley Theatre. This was well attended by friends and family and was a fun start to our annual fundraising campaign. Lee Gillespie provided beautiful piano favorites throughout the event adding that special touch to the event!
On Tuesday, Apr. 23, Shepherd’s Center will honor the Spencers at its 17th annual Community Service Award Luncheon. Held at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine Roland P. Sharp Alumni Center, attendees will also be treated to a special film production about Brenda and Linda from award-winning filmmaker, B.J. Gudmundsson. The event runs from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased by calling 304-645-4196.
“Brenda and Linda Spencer’s gift of compassion and empathy encompasses every need around them,” says Reverend Bev Colombo, assistant pastor at Lewisburg United Methodist Church. “They always seek to encourage, give hope, and meet the needs of those around them.”
Shepherd’s Center of Greenbrier Valley is celebrating 20 years of service to the community in 2019. In addition to the Community Service Awards luncheon, the nonprofit organization has many other events planned to celebrate, including a special fall celebration event.
For ticket information, to purchase a program ad, to learn more about Shepherd’s Center’s programs or for volunteer opportunities, see www.greenbriershepherdscenter.com. Or contact Teresa Bostic, executive director, at 304-645-4196 or greenbriershepherdscenter@gmail.com.