Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Rich

This month’s Volunteer Spotlight recognizes Richard Haney who has volunteered with the Literacy Council since 2014. Dr. Richard (Rich) Haney, EdD, has dedicated his entire career to education, and over 45+ years to the Frederick County community.  After retiring from Frederick Community College and also from the FCC Foundation, he chose the Literacy Council where he could continue to make an impact on helping adults and families in our community gain literacy skills.

Rich has served on the Literacy Council’s Board of Directors for over seven years, including as Vice President and President, and whose board term ends this month.  Throughout his tenure, he has led the Development Committee, meeting monthly with a team of volunteers and staff to support the Literacy Council’s fundraising and development work as the small staff team did not have a dedicated Development position until this year.  As a result of Rich’s guidance, the Literacy Council has experienced steady program growth from increased financial support from the community.  Adult learners and their families are directly benefitting from the “gift of literacy” made possible by his example.

The Literacy  Council’s Celebration of Achievements honoring adult learners and volunteers, has grown over the years to include elected officials and other critical representatives from the community, the result of Rich’s efforts to raise awareness of this work and how it impacts the well-being of the entire community. When he welcomed our students at an event where they were reading from stories they contributed to our literary magazine, Reflections: Voices of English Learners, Rich went out of his way to welcome everyone in multiple languages.

Rich participated extensively in our most recent strategic planning efforts and in the development of our new “Literacy Lifts Lives” messaging to help communicate how literacy is a critical issue in our community.  His stewardship efforts include writing many personal thank  you notes so that every donor receives a hand-written message.  Rich also helped the Literacy Council to develop its Giving  Societies program.  In November, 2021, he was recognized as a Distinguished Volunteer by the Association of Fundraising Professionals on National Philanthropy Day for his work with the Literacy  Council.

“Rich’s work is driven by his belief in the power of education and literacy, and commitment to this community.  His lifetime of work in the field of education is a testament to this.  Personal traits include: attention to detail, warm and friendly communication style, willingness to carry out detailed tasks, and supporting a strong working relationship with fellow volunteers and staff.”  Laurie Fisher, Executive Director

“Rich Haney has been a real asset to the Literacy Council Board of Directors. During his seven years, the Literacy Council has experienced significant growth and development. His vision has helped establish our Strategic Planning Committee, improve our data system, and provide prompt recognition for gifts given. Rich has left his imprint in many ways and will be missed.  Thank you, Rich.” Jim Grissom, Immediate Past President

Thank you for your years of service, and we wish you all the best in your ever present work in our community! We know you are just a short walk away!!