Leah Farris was a longtime volunteer and substitute teacher in CAPCA’s Head Start Program. Leah greeted everyone with a huge smile. She had a true heart for the children, the families, and the staff that could be seen and felt daily through her acts of kindness. Leah was always thinking of others. She would even take it upon herself to make sure the children had winter coats. She loved bringing the teachers little gifts or supplies to brighten their day and show how much she cared. No matter what the obstacles of the day may have brought, Leah always showed up when needed, and gave her best to support to the staff and the program. CAPCA created this award to honor her and her memory.

2023 marked the first annual Leah Farris Heart of Service Award. This award goes to a CAPCA volunteer, or non-CAPCA staff member, whose heart of service consistently goes above and beyond. A person who is kind, thoughtful, joyful, and compassionate. A person who is committed to making a difference every day.

The 2023 Leah Farris Heart of Service Award went to Ms. Nancy Bynum. Ms. Nancy has been a volunteer for CAPCA for many years. She has worked in many capacities such as the food pantry, holiday food box distribution, student market, and emergency services. Her coworkers describe her as "a joy to work with", "She is welcoming, compassionate, and caring towards everyone that she meets." She helps rehousing and homelessness prevention clients obtain self-sufficiency, provide life skills and assists with Mayflowers commodities distribution.  Her positive attitude has earned her the title of office grandma! Ms. Nancy is always eager to help, takes pride in the work she does and does so with a loving heart. She provides a relaxing, gentle and reassuring energy to both clients and staff and has become an essential piece to the team. Another team member stated, "she has impacted my life in a way that I can’t even begin to express in words". 

Congratulations Ms. Nancy you are a true example of the "Heart of Service" award.