Q3 2023 Volunteer of the Quarter

Jerry Lara has put in 364.25 hours since beginning with us in mid-April 2023. Since then, he has become a Lead Volunteer, helping watch the center when staff is away and to train new volunteers. Being our only current Marine, Jerry often serves as our unofficial ambassador to the American Consulate, connecting us to the other Marines and staff there. Jerry has learned to bake here, taking over the mantle as resident baker from some of previous Leads. He honed his skills by making countless cookies, at least five cakes, and continues to push his baking skills every shift. Jerry’s personality has also made him a fan favorite among other volunteers. He brings a Mission First-mentality to his volunteering, while still having his signature sarcasm, wit, humor, and respect with everyone he meets. Jerry has an infectious spirit that brightens the room and provides positive energy when he enters the space. Often times when he comes into the center, it is not uncommon to hear other volunteers and guest interject with “JERRRRRY!!!!” illustrating excitement that he’s come to volunteer. Jerry, in his humble and calm demeanor, typically responds with a smile as he greets others in return. During Taste of Home and other programs when Jerry interacts and serves service members, he does so with excellence and welcomes collaboration of other volunteers. Jerry is the USO’s connector to the Marine service members- while there are few, most are younger and feel disconnected to the rest of the Incirlik base. Before Jerry, the USO would quarterly visit the consulate and marines with a morale drop, but after Jerry we see the Marines weekly. They come out to our different programs and have even started becoming part of base-wide events. Jerry is one of our youngest volunteers at 23 years old. He has not only been a leader amongst his peers, but also has brought energy, youth, and new perspectives into the USO- keeping us relevant and accessible to the GenZ population on base. #theUSO