June 26, 2020
Thirty-year AHC Inc. veteran Hanh Nguyen has dedicated her life to helping others. Over the course of the past four decades, Hanh has left an indelible impact on AHC, the people she worked with, and the many residents who continue to benefit from her generous spirit.
On July 14, Volunteer Arlington honored Hanh’s long-time volunteerism by awarding her the 2020 Volunteer Arlington Lifetime of Service Award during the organization’s annual Arlington Cares event. The award recognizes and celebrates an individual for whom volunteerism and service to others is a part of the fabric of their being. Whether through their organized volunteer work or through their pattern of consistently thinking of and acting on others’ needs before their own, this person’s life is an example of a life lived for their community.
“I wanted to volunteer in the community after retirement because I wanted to give back as a way to show my appreciation to the United States – my second home – and to all the Americans who accepted me and allowed me to have the freedom to live, to work, and be happy,” said Hanh during the virtual award ceremony.
Hanh was a committed volunteer during her 30-year career in AHC’s accounting department. She cooked meals for residents and volunteered at her Buddhist temple to help with day and funeral services as well as weekend retreats. She also found time in her schedule to help distribute home cooked meals to the homeless in Washington, D.C.
Ten years after retiring, Hanh continues to be a steadfast volunteer. Twice a week, she helps distribute food to AHC residents through our partnership with the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC). She always goes above and beyond the basic volunteer duties.
“Hanh always has a smile for residents coming to pick up food. She takes the time to form connections with other volunteers and staff and often brings homemade food to share,” says Jennifer Endo, AHC’s Vice President of Community Relations. “She not only provides nurturing food for residents and families; Hanh nurtures their overall well-being and sense of dignity.”
Hanh’s co-workers remember her as a warm, generous, and much-loved colleague. “I’ve known Hanh for decades and she is truly an inspiration,” says Stephen Smith, AHC’s Executive Vice President. “She is one of the nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing, and I am grateful for the many ways she has enhanced the lives of countless AHC residents, staff members, and others in the community.”
Congratulations to Hanh Nguyen for receiving the 2020 Volunteer Arlington Lifetime of Service Award!
About AHC Inc.
Founded in 1975, AHC Inc. is a nonprofit developer of affordable housing that provides quality homes and education programs for low- and moderate-income families. Based in Arlington, VA, AHC has developed more than 7,500 apartment units in 50+ properties in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC. AHC’s Resident Services program reaches 3,000 children, teens, adults and seniors each year through onsite education and social service programs and activities.
Media Contact: Jennifer K. Smith, Director of Communications, jennifer.smith@ahcinc.org/ 703-486‑0626 x1118