MDS NCO named local volunteer of the year

  • Published
  • By Maj. Roxy Hambleton
  • 482nd Force Support Squadron
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  An Airman and his wife have been awarded the 2016 Family Volunteer of the Year Award for spending the last Sunday of every month feeding the homeless for the past three years.

Staff Sgt. Robert Munro, a 482nd Medical Squadron medical technician, and his wife, April Teddlie, volunteer through the Broward Partnership, which provides services and works with individuals and families to assist them on their road to employment.

The couple was nominated for their award by DonnaLee Minott, the community engagement manager for the program. They were chosen for the award for their consistency in working with the program and drive to help the homeless. Their three-year commitment was second to none and appreciated by the Broward Partnership.

“Their tireless efforts and dedication to helping the homeless rebuild lives led to their selection as the only winners for this award,” said Minott. “They make this commitment a priority and are always available to feed the hungry.”

Munro is a Traditional Reservist who, on a typical Unit Training Assembly weekend, can be seen coordinating all facets of Physical Health Assessments. However, his full-time job for the past 12 years has been as a land development company supervisor.

Seeing his wife working with the homeless is what inspired Munro to get involved with the program and work alongside her. The couple serves and distributes food to approximately 150 adults and 20 children every time they are there.

“It’s incredibly rewarding and it helps me appreciate what I have,” said Munro.

Recently, while working yet another three-hour shift, Munro saw an unexpected face in line where he was serving – a childhood friend of his brother’s.
“People fall on hard times in their lives and need this type of assistance,” said Munro. “There is no shame in using this assistance or asking for help. I was happy to see him there getting his life back in order.”

Munro and his wife chose the Broward Partnership because they will not feed anyone who uses illegal drugs or is unwilling to improve their situation.

“People in the program must want to better themselves and be open to job assistance, resume help, and looking at a better future,” he said.

Minott says Munro and his wife have become vital partners in Broward’s mission to reduce homelessness in the community.

While he’s volunteering, Munro says that those coming through the food line are thankful and often ask questions like: “Were you made to be here?” Or, “Is this a mandated community service?”

“When they hear we are there out of a sense to do for others, they are initially surprised but then very appreciative,” said Munro, chuckling as he recalls the memories. “That makes it all worthwhile.”