A Teen's Farewell Hannah RHUDY

Miss Virginia Teen Volunteer 2021

To me, the best part of living life is that it rarely goes as planned. Last October, I was doing homework at the kitchen table when my parents got a call from Mrs. Kyle Grinnage. Little did I know, God was handing me a life changing job. Being appointed the inaugural Miss Virginia Teen Volunteer has been a dream come true. Working alongside Breana, Keelyn, and Catherine to help grow the Volunteer organization is incredible. Although competing in Jackson, Tennessee didn’t go as planned, this has been a year of growth and joy. My favorite memories include reading stories to elementary school students, serving meals and roller skating with the Virginia Special Olympians, and raising money for the Salvation Army during the holidays. In December, I attended parades with Breana and our local titleholders and of course, the fabulous Miss Virginia Volunteer car. Preparing for nationals with Mrs. Kyle, Mrs. Linda, and my mom had great fun. I prepared to sing the Broadway hit “Live Out Loud” from the little princess and with the help of my family, I had every detail of the competition organized. As I mentioned, the best part of living life is that it rarely goes as planned. I flew with my parents to Jackson and despite being vaccinated, I tested positive for COVID the evenings before registration. Unfortunately, I had to withdraw from the Miss America Teen Volunteer competition. The next six days, I watched preliminaries from the bed and spent my days coloring or talking to friends. Looking back, this was simply God’s plan.

I am eternally grateful for the Volunteer family who assured me everything was going to be okay. I feel so grateful for my health as I understand many families have lost everything in the global pandemic. Spending a week with my parents as we watched animal planet and Shrek movies will always be a cherished memory.

First, thank you to the Runk family who launched the Virginia Volunteer organization and make this experience truly glamorous. Mrs. Runk- you have a golden heart and I admire how you balance being a girlboss and mother. You are the definition of success and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be your first volunteer teen. Miss Caitlyn and Mr. Chris- you both are so talented. From big pictures to the smallest details, I appreciate your passion and heart. Mrs. Kyle and Mrs. Linda- thank you for being my mentors since I was a little girl. You both carry so much poise and grace. Our visit in the driveway in Jackson was the highlight of my journey to Tennessee and I love being your girl. Thank you to the Gudgers for providing support, resources, and mentorship. You are the kindest family and thanks to you both, I felt so confident and prepared for the interview. To Mrs. Elizabeth Ballard-you are incredible. Thank you for showering me with love and even sending cookies when I was sick in Jackson. The Princess Program is so lucky to have you. Huge thanks to Mrs. Ashlyn and Mr. Josh for being the creative masterminds behind social media and content. Your visions are remarkable and I have so much fun working with you both. Lastly, thank you to my sisters and parents for supporting me and providing me with so many opportunities. Morgan and Addison, you have been so patient and supportive, always attending my events and helping me succeed. My lovely grandparents come to every event and love the Volunteer family just as much as I do. Thank you to my parents for being my rock. This year has been an adventure and you both are incredible. Thank you to Daddy for being my buddy and helping with details like clothing, food, car rentals, and lodging. Lastly to Mommy, thank you for being my person. You provide me with everything I need to be the best wingwoman. I dream of being half the mother you are someday.

Thank you for being here to support the Volunteer family. This organization is remarkable and I am proud to take part in it. The best part of living life is that it rarely goes as planned.

I am Miss Virginia Teen Volunteer, Hannah Rhudy.

Thank you.