Laurel Barrett: A Global Voice for Volunteer Recognition
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Laurel Barrett is more than a community leader, educator, and public figure. She is a lifelong volunteer who has dedicated thousands of hours to causes that uplift and inspire. In 2024, she continues her mission through the Global Volunteer Recognition Program, a growing platform she founded to spotlight and celebrate volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
With over 500 hours of service each year, Laurel leads by example. Her efforts range from organizing donation drives and park cleanups to mentoring youth, volunteering with the Medical Reserve Corps, and answering NORAD calls on Christmas Eve to help children track Santa. She is known for traveling across the country to support community events, lead projects, and encourage others to serve.
As the founder of the Global Volunteer Recognition Program, Laurel helps individuals receive acknowledgment for their time and dedication. The program connects volunteers with monthly service projects, shares their impact stories across social media, and offers opportunities for prestigious honors like the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA).
Building a Global Network of Volunteers
Laurel’s goal has always been clear. It is to ensure that volunteers feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Under her leadership, the program continues to grow with members joining from across the United States and around the world.
She regularly features volunteers on the program’s social media platforms and encourages members to tag or add the program as collaborators so their efforts can be shared with a wide audience. Laurel also launched an annual event, the Watercolor Whimsy Gala, to celebrate service and recognize changemakers in a meaningful and creative way.
Recognized Leader in Volunteerism
In addition to her work in the community, Laurel has been honored multiple times with the President’s Volunteer Service Award. She also received a nomination for the 2024 Small Business Champion Award, acknowledging the impact of her program and its contribution to civic engagement.
With a background in healthcare, pharmacy education, and public appearances, Laurel uses her platform to empower others to give back. Her unique combination of experience, visibility, and purpose-driven leadership makes her a powerful advocate for global volunteerism.
