Shana Pierce heard a radio commercial three years ago calling for volunteers to help single parent students reach their academic and career goals. She was looking for a new way to give back to her community in Northeast Arkansas, so she reached out to the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund to learn more.
“I was immediately drawn to how much attention is given to each applicant and the heartfelt support that continues with its recipients,” Shana said. “I have never seen a group have such genuine care and concern for the success of their scholarship recipients.”
Since 2021, Shana has volunteered at awards ceremonies, student interviews, and workshops. She has mentored single parents and even graciously offered her office space as a gathering place for ASPSF activities. She does all this while working as an executive broker at Select Properties and running her own business, The Real Estate Education Hub.
For going above and beyond to help single parents, ASPSF has named Shana of Craighead County the May 2024 Volunteer of the Month.
Shana Pierce (right) distributed scholarships at the ASPSF Spring 2024 Awards Ceremony in Jonesboro.
“She humbly does it all with grace and no want of recognition,” Program Manager Carrie Allen said. “She truly cares about and believes in our organization and our students and wants to help them succeed. She is a huge asset to ASPSF, and I feel so lucky to have her as a volunteer and friend.”
Shanna said she loves spending time with recipients and their families. She listens to their stories and celebrates with them as they reach their goals.
“These moms and dads are among the most appreciative and deserving, which is one of the things that make volunteering with ASPSF so rewarding,” Shana said. “Another rewarding moment is watching those proud little faces when parents bring their children to watch them receive their scholarship award!”
No matter what activity Shana helps with, she is always grateful for the opportunity to help families thrive in her community.
“I leave each phone call, interview, and awards ceremony beyond blessed and inspired with stories of overcoming hardships, progress, and daily triumphs,” she said.