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The Value of the Community Health Worker
44 RuralLeaderMagazine.com Continued on page 27
Mumphery has received multiple educational awards. and made accomplishments outside of his education. "I have had numerous accomplishments in my workplace as a marketing assistant at Chick-fil-A Cordele, which has also led to other opportunities such as my participation in the Hospitality Careers Academy, sponsored by the Classic Center in Athens, Georgia, and the Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation," he said.
Mumphery's achievement have not changed is humble disposition, however. "My numerous accomplishments and milestones that have made up my journey throughout life so far have humbled me more than anything. They have made me better as a person, allowed me to realize how far I am in life, how far I can go in life, and how much I have truly been blessed. Without these opportunities, I probably would not have attempted to give back to my community as much as I have over the past few years," he said.
Mumphery's charity extends throughout community. "Volunteering at my local recreation department, participating in community events such as Cookies with Santa, or helping host a charity run for a fellow student at my high school after her death in order to help her family pay for funeral costs, have all allowed me to give back. However, I still have not done as much as I should, and I am hoping to be able to change that in the future. Through community service, God allows me to give my time to those who may feel like no one else cares, put smiles on others’ faces, or simply lend a helping hand. It provides eye-opening moments for me as well help, guidance, and a sense of humanity for others. I am truly thankful for the few moments of my time I have been able to share," he said.—
Seventeen year old Emanuel Ricardo is a senior at Crisp County High School in Cordele, Georgia. Ricardo is very athletic, for he enjoys playing soccer. He served as the starting left midfielder for the CCHS Soccer Team the first three years of his high school career. Not only is Ricardo athletic, he also enjoys playing baritone in the CCHS Band. "This year I served as the CCHS Band Captain and was nominated by my peers to serve as a male representative on our Homecoming Court," he said.
After graduation, Ricardo plans to attend Valdosta State University to pursue a degree in Business Administration. However, Richardo plans to continued to give back to his hometown. "Upon graduation from Valdosta State, I plan to return home to Cordele, Georgia. I plan to partner with my mom to open up a restaurant specializing in Cuban cuisine. My mom is an excellent cook and has always desired to open up her own restaurant. I look forward to being able to help her realize that dream," he said.
Ricardo is preparing for his future role as an entrepreneur.
"This year I did not play soccer so that I would have time to work in a restaurant and learn more about the operations of this type of business. To further understand how to establish our business I enrolled in an entrepreneurship class and am currently writing my first business plan," said Ricardo.
In addition to extracurricular activities, Ricardo also spends time mentoring youth at First United Methodist Church of Cordele. "Twelve years ago, our church decided to add a Hispanic Ministry to reach out to our growing Hispanic population. My family relocated to Cordele so that my Dad could serve as the Hispanic Pastor at the First United Methodist Church. Through my Father’s role and example, I am able to work with kids from the age of 4 to 18 years old, " he said.
Ricardo's responsibility also included transporting kids to and from church and youth activities weekly. He also assisted with tutoring in the after-school program for Hispanic kids. "One of the best things I do is (Continued on page 51) Under 20 Honoring young indiviudals for exemplary academic achievement and service to community