Meet four local Food City employees who are making their communities better

1 hour ago

Collins Parker,

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – Food City employees thousands of workers across their grocery store chain in multiple states.

Each year, they pick a handful of those workers to recognize for their volunteer work.

“Food City is committed to the communities we serve. Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents to assist charitable organizations throughout the region, and we’re proud to recognize their efforts,” said Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer.

The company picked three employees from our area as district winners.

They get a $250 donation to their favorite charity.

And here are this year’s winners in our area:

Randy Mitchell, Driver Dispatcher in Hixson

Randy put in 200 volunteer hours last year in projects like raising money with the Shriners, selling candy, and supporting the Baptist Children’s Home.

“Randy became a Shiner in 1997 with a heartfelt purpose to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children needing medical care. His commitment to serving others has been an inspiring example of compassion, dedication, and community impact.”

Janise Carlton, Scan Deputy Chattanooga

Janise does a lot of work for her church, New Friendship Baptist. Some of the work is doing about everything for Vacation Bible School, organizing overnight stays for the youth, church dinners, and shopping for items to put out in food baskets for the needy.

“She balances her home life, church life and work life in a way that gets everything done in all areas. And she does all of this with energy and a smile that never stops. ”

David Harris, Main Receiver Chattanooga

David puts his volunteer energy into driving young men back and forth to baseball and football games and buying them equipment. He has been doing this at Rossville Middle School and the Ridgeland Little League Association for ten years.

“A coach that I admire brought me in to help with the kids.”

Nathan Ott, Pharmacy Manager Dalton

Nathan has many volunteer jobs. He helps lead Grace Medical Outreach Ministries which offers medical services for the homebound. His duties also include helping organize the fundraiser Gracefest and delivering Thanksgiving meals. Nathan also is a volleyball coach for Dalton Parks and Recreation.

“He said that as a pharmacist, he thought that his medical background would add value to this organization, which was originally founded by members of his church. He was excited about the doors Grace Medical Outreach could open, from providing medical and physical needs, to sharing the gospel, discipleship, and providing for the spiritual needs of people in our community.”