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Volunteer Spotlight

Volunteers are the lifeblood of First Coral Gables, bringing our mission to life through their dedication and service. From welcoming guests and tidying spaces, to leading ministries and supporting outreach programs, every act of service strengthens our faith community. A volunteer’s willingness to serve helps us share God’s love and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the unseen heroes of First Coral Gables!

A Family That Serves Together: The Hernandez Family

At First Coral Gables, the spirit of service runs deep. But few embody it as fully—and joyfully—as the Hernandez family. Orlando and Jennifer Hernandez, along with their children Orlando Jr., Melissa, and Jacob, are a familiar sight at church events. Whether it's planting trees for climate justice, serving meals at Chapman Partnership, or packaging food for Rise Against Hunger, the Hernandezes show up with willing hands and open hearts.

Their journey into volunteering, however, didn’t begin with a grand plan. “For me,” Jennifer shares, “I was always kind of afraid of getting out there. But Orlando took the lead in bringing the family and teaching them to volunteer.” Orlando’s passion for service stems from his own life experience. “Growing up, I was the beneficiary of other people’s help—people who donated time, uniforms, and other things. I wanted to do the same when I grew up. And I want to teach the kids: everyone has something to contribute.”

The couple’s belief that everyone has something to give, regardless of age or personality, has shaped their family culture. They’ve made volunteering a natural part of their children’s lives. The kids, Jennifer says, especially love serving at Vacation Bible School, tree planting, and Rise Against Hunger events. “Jacob, our youngest, has no fear talking to people at Chapman. I’m a shy person, but watching him do that has helped me come out of my own shell, too.”

Volunteering for the Hernandezes is more than just an act of service. It’s an extension of their faith. “One time,” Orlando recalls, “we got to Chapman late and I wasn’t doing my usual task. But I remembered what the Bible says: ‘Whatever you do, do it unto the Lord.’ That reminded me that it didn’t matter what I was doing—as long as I did my best.”

Jennifer adds, “I see things while volunteering that connect me to the Bible. At Chapman, some people are going through a very tough time. When the kids see that, they’re learning how to respond with compassion. That’s putting their faith into practice. At [CORE] Youth Group, they learn about clothing your neighbor, praying for your enemy—and then they go out and do it. It’s not just words. It becomes part of who they are.”

Of course, like many people, the Hernandezes once believed some of the common myths about volunteering. “People think, ‘Oh, I’m not good at that,’ or ‘I can’t feed 10,000 people [referring to the Rise Against Hunger event],’” says Orlando. “But there’s always something you can do. Everyone helps with a small part, and it all becomes possible.”

Jennifer agrees. “Some people think, ‘They already have their group; they don’t need me.’ But when you show up, people are so happy to see you. Everyone is so welcoming.  And every time the kids try something new, they grow more confident. They become more comfortable trying things and doing things.”

For the Hernandez family, volunteering is also a way to strengthen their bond. “Everyone’s busy,” Orlando admits, “but unless you prioritize it, it won’t happen. And this is one way we can have fun together as a family.”

And it’s paying off. The children are becoming leaders in their own right. “Orlando Jr. is in college now, and he’s inviting his friends to church and church activities,” says Jennifer. “Jacob and Melissa do the same. They’re really showing interest in continuing this life of service.”

Beyond deepening their own faith and family connection, volunteering has broadened their community. “We’ve met more people through volunteering than just attending church service,” Jennifer says. “You get to interact, talk, and your community grows.”

The Hernandez family’s story is a testament to how small acts of service can shape lives, deepen faith, and knit communities together. Their example shows us that we don’t need to have special skills or extra time—just a willing heart.

As Jennifer puts it: “If you’re doubting it—100% do it. Go for it!”  

Dulcie Huskins: Time to Volunteer

For Dulcie Huskins, volunteering has been a lifelong commitment. Since her youth, she has dedicated her time to a variety of service projects, from Vacation Bible School to the Climate Justice Tree Planting. Whether she is ushering during worship, participating in Rise Against Hunger, or assisting with Alfalit, Coconut Grove Crisis Food Pantry, Via de Cristo, or Kairos Prison Ministry, Dulcie embraces every opportunity to give back.

“I was raised to volunteer,” she says. And that foundation has led her to continue serving others throughout her life.

One of her favorite volunteer experiences takes place at the Chapman Partnership for the Homeless, where she serves meals to residents. “It’s great because you get to talk to people. And they’re always happy to see us.” She finds joy in these moments of connection, where a simple meal becomes an opportunity to share kindness and conversation.

Dulcie’s motivation for volunteering is simple yet profound. “You get to help other people. That’s a great use of your time because you’re doing something good. It makes you smile.” Even with a busy schedule filled with school and time at CrossFit, she prioritizes volunteering, believing in the impact of small, meaningful actions.

Her commitment to service has also enriched her professional journey. While studying to become a Home Health Aide and Certified Nursing Assistant, Dulcie continued volunteering, gaining invaluable skills along the way. “I learned to interact with people better. People of all backgrounds.” Now, as she applies for jobs in her field, she carries with her the lessons of empathy and communication that volunteering has taught her.

One common misconception about volunteering, Dulcie notes, is that people see it as a hardship rather than an enjoyable activity. “People get it into their heads that it’s a burden or a responsibility, and it’s not. It’s fun. And it’s a good use of your time.”

Through her dedication and enthusiasm, Dulcie Huskins embodies the true spirit of volunteerism. Her story is a reminder that giving back not only benefits others but also enriches our own lives in ways we might never expect.

The Rewards of Volunteering: A Conversation with Cheryl Akerman

Volunteering is often seen as a noble act of giving, but for Cheryl Akerman, it is a profound and joyful way to serve both God and her community. A dedicated volunteer in multiple church and school initiatives, Cheryl embodies the true spirit of service. Through her work with the Altar Guild, The Growing Place School, Vacation Bible School, and various outreach ministries, she has touched countless lives —and found deep personal fulfillment.

For Cheryl, volunteering is more than just a commitment—it is a calling. “It gives me great pleasure to serve God. I serve God by serving others,” she shares. Growing up in a family that valued faith and service, Cheryl was deeply influenced by her parents. Her father was a deacon, and her mother worked in a church office, setting a strong example of servanthood that Cheryl carries forward in her own life.

Dispelling the Myths About Volunteering

One of the most common misconceptions about volunteering, Cheryl explains, is the fear that it will be overwhelming. “People think they’ll be thrown into a job with very little help and that volunteering is a huge effort. In actuality, the opposite is true.” Volunteers often find themselves surrounded by supportive communities, working together toward a common goal. The shared sense of purpose and camaraderie make the experience both rewarding and fun.

The Joy of Making a Difference

Among the many volunteer roles Cheryl has taken on, one of the most rewarding has been serving as a volunteer speech pathologist for Kindergarten students. For the past eight years, she has helped young children overcome speech impediments, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of patient guidance and encouragement. “Seeing a child begin to overcome a stutter or another speech impediment, just over the course of one year, feels very good,” she says.

Beyond her work in speech pathology, Cheryl also finds joy in numerous other activities, from baking cookies for the Kairos Prison Ministry to calling homebound seniors to check on their well-being. Whether she’s tidying the sanctuary, sending Christmas cards to seniors, packaging meals for Rise Against Hunger, or leading games at Vacation Bible School, each act of service reinforces her belief that volunteering is a meaningful way to express faith and love.

A Life Enriched by Service

Cheryl’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the many rewards of volunteering. Through her dedication, she not only enriches the lives of others but also experiences the deep fulfillment that comes from making a difference. Her journey reminds us that service is not just about giving—it is about growing, connecting, and finding joy in helping others.

For those considering volunteering, Cheryl’s advice is simple: don’t be afraid to take the first step. The support and rewards you will receive in return make the effort more than worthwhile. After all, as Cheryl’s life demonstrates, the greatest fulfillment often comes from the act of serving others.