RIFA gives thanks to local volunteers

JACKSON, Tenn. — A local nonprofit celebrated volunteerism in the Hub City as dozens came out Tuesday to the West Tennessee Farmers Market in downtown Jackson.

Regional Inter-Faith Association celebrated those who give their time during the annual Volunteer Appreciation Day Cookout sponsored by Bancorp South.

Volunteers have logged more than 20,000 hours over the past year. RIFA leaders say they are vital to the nonprofit’s mission.

“Without volunteers, we would shut the doors,” volunteer coordinator Dan Ward said. “We have more volunteer hours than we do employee hours, so they’re key to the overall operation of RIFA.”

With the help of its many volunteers, RIFA serves more than 17,000 people each year.