One week out of the year is set aside to recognize the impact volunteer service has on American communities and to inspire others into likeminded generosity.
National Volunteer Week is April 18 through April 24, but Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) Supervisory Officer Gregory Gee doesn’t need a recognized week to prompt him to think of others. Acknowledged as a change agent by leadership, he’s all about helping folks in need.
Honorably discharged with the rank of corporal, Gee served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1979 to 1985. The devil dog esprit de corps, or camaraderie on and off the battlefield, is in his DNA.
Whether at work on the checkpoint or on his own time, Gee’s calendar is booked with ways to spread goodwill and compassion.
Wings for Autism, Honor Flight and Toys for Tots? He’s done them. Chairing the White House Easter Egg Roll and Christmas tree lighting activities? Check the box because Gee is there with a smile. Helping disadvantaged people in the inner city? Gee wouldn’t miss that for the world.
Gee’s compassion and caring is readily available through his help with BWI’s emergency response team.
“He leads a team to respond in emergencies and inclement weather to include picking up others who are stranded or in need of help,” boasted a proud Assistant Federal Security Director -Screening Cindy Rahmani. “He also used his community resources to assist our employees during the government shutdown and donates to an ongoing employee pantry, stocking it with diapers, formula, toiletries, etc.”
Gee’s community resources are considerable. As a member of We-Our-Us, a Baltimore organization that meets the marginalized where they are and offers them love and opportunity, Gee’s kindness knows no bounds. He and 50 to 100 of his organization’s brothers visit the roughest inner city street corners en masse.
“We meet the gangs, we engage them and we love on them,” explained Gee, who said the sheer number of his group keeps even the most violent possibilities at bay. “It’s a diverse group of men – Black, white, clergy, Muslims, etc. We offer them resources and we build trust fast because they see how tight we are.”
What started as “Stop the Beef – Stop the Killings” grew into a partnership with the state of Maryland and the Thrive Academy initiative.
“Helping out to give youth a second chance is what working with Thrive Academy means to me,” said Gee. “These youths have many issues that make them seem uncontrollable. I believe I have the mindset and ability to deal with them by showing them a different way to meet their needs, helping with decision-making skills and building their self-confidence. Working with Thrive gives us resources such as housing, education, jobs and legal assistance. A multi-pronged approach allows us to reduce obstacles these youths are facing.”
His motivation is pure, and his approach is simple. He’s grateful for the good life he had as an Army brat, one of 11 children whose family moved to Baltimore after his father retired from the service. He finds fulfillment in helping people.
“Giving back is a reflection of my appreciation of God’s gifts to me,” said Gee. “Seeing the happiness others experience makes me feel good that I can help.”
“Supervisory Officer Gee is a role model, not only within the TSA ranks but within the community,” said Federal Security Director Chris Murgia. “His selfless show of compassion and willingness to help others shines through every day. Gee has it all, right down to the sharp pressed uniform, shiny shoes and command presence. He’s pretty good at bowling too!”
During National Volunteer Week, take time to thank all the selfless volunteers in your community. If you feel inspired by Gee’s story, pick a passion and give your time. Gee promises if you act as a change agent for someone, you’ll be hooked.
“If you do it one time, you’ll want to do it more,” vowed Gee.
By Karen Robicheaux, TSA Strategic Communications & Public Affairs