I think everybody in the company cheered when Jim Watson was selected as this year’s Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award recipient.
Watson works as a truck driver for the Food City Distribution Center in Abingdon, Virginia, where he has served for 30 years. He has been an active volunteer with St. Jude Children’s Hospital since his son Cade was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2010 at the age of 10.
Watson and his family lived in Memphis for nine months while Cade received treatment. The family never received a bill for treatment, housing, travel or food. Having felt helpless and hopeless during this tragic time in their lives, Watson strives to give back and support the life-saving efforts of St. Jude in its fight to end childhood cancer.
Watson rallies his family and friends to assist with fundraising throughout the year to benefit St. Jude. He works to raise awareness about childhood cancer and the great work St. Jude is doing to benefit cancer patients and their families.
He has hosted numerous events over the years, ranging from bingo and bluegrass shows to golf tournaments, banquets and live auctions. Thanks to Watson’s outstanding efforts and the tremendous support of his family, friends and community, he has raised more than $760,000 to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital over the past 12 years – that’s over three-quarters of a million dollars.
“I am very grateful for winning this award, but to me this is about the kids of St. Jude and this award is for them,” said Watson. Food City is making a $1,250 contribution on Watson’s behalf to the charity of his choice.
Each year, Food City recognizes outstanding volunteerism through the Claude P. Varney program.
“As a company, we’re committed to giving back to the communities we serve, while providing a work environment that enables our associates to grow both personally and professionally as successful members of our team,” says Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. “Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents in service of civic organizations throughout the region and we’re proud to formally recognize their efforts.”
The program is named in memory of Food City’s beloved former president and board vice-chair of 47 years, Claude P. Varney, who was well-known for his tremendous compassion and humanitarian services. An independent panel of judges reviews associate nominations. Winners are selected based upon outstanding achievements in the areas of health, education, environment, cultural arts, recreational, heritage/history and public service.
One winner is selected from each Food City store. The field is then narrowed to 13 district winners, followed by two divisional winners, and the overall recipient of the Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award.
“We’re extremely proud of the difference our associates make in their community by devoting their time and talents in the service of others,” says Smith.
Jobs, jobs, jobs: Food City continues to hire for full- or part-time jobs, entry-level or skilled positions. Interested candidates can apply online at FoodCity.com or visit any Food City store to complete an application.
Betsi James is special events manager for Food City’s Knoxville and Chattanooga divisions.