Kingsport earns JustServe designation

KINGSPORT — The Model City was recognized for its volunteerism during Tuesday's Kingsport Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting. Kingsport is the first city in East Tennessee, and the second in the state, to earn the JustServe City designation. The honor was presented by representatives from JustServe.org, a platform from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints connecting people with volunteer opportunities. JustServe Specialist David Fagerburg gave the certificate to Kingsport Mayor Paul Montgomery during the recognitions and presentations portion of the meeting. "Typically, the board recognizes individuals and organizations for their service to our community, but tonight we're turning that tradition around by recognizing the city of Kingsport itself for its outstanding commitment to volunteerism and community partnerships," Fagerburg said. Fagerburg explained that Tennessee was recognized as a JustServe state in June of this year. He said the JustServe platform has connected more than 1 million volunteers with organizations serving their communities. "When we serve our neighbors, we strengthen our communities, and that spirit of service is something Kingsport demonstrates well," he commented. "As we prepared this application, we identified some 30 organizations serving Kingsport residents through volunteer opportunities. That says something remarkable about our community. Service is woven into the fabric of our city." The designation represents the work of volunteers, nonprofits, civic leaders, churches, business and neighbors from across Kingsport, Fagerburg mentioned. "Kingsport has demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism, community partnerships, and caring for neighbors," he said. "Being recognized as a JustServe city simply celebrates what this community has already become." Other comments Montgomery thanked Fagerburg for taking the time to recognize the city of Kingsport for its volunteer efforts, as well as his consistent attendance at BMA meetings. "Thank you, Mr. Fagerburg, for recognizing the city of Kingsport," he said. "And on behalf of this board, we say thank you. We are honored to be the second city in the state of Tennessee. What an honor that you have bestowed on us." The mayor presented Spirit of Kingsport coins to Fagerburg and Jason Pickup, a leader for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Kingsport area and a JustServe representative. "On behalf of what you do to promote others, I want to give you a coin which we call the Spirit of Kingsport coin," he said. "J. Fred Johnson said it best: 'When you put others above self, ensure the greater good for the greatest number.' And you definitely are demonstrating that to our city." According to a previous press release, JustServe hosts more than 10,000 users statewide and 650 Tennessee organizations use the platform. "Service is one of the purest ways we show love for God and for our neighbors," Pickup said in the release. "Through JustServe, people from different backgrounds can work side by side to support local organizations and lift those in need. We're deeply grateful for the spirit of service found throughout the Kingsport area and Tennessee, and honored to recognize this culture of compassion that helps neighbors feel seen, valued and loved."