Celebrating Gas South's 2024 Difference Makers

In this week’s blog, we’re recapping the big-hearted people we recently highlighted in our Difference Makers email campaign. Each of these volunteers is being recognized for going above and beyond in service to one of our 10 Fuel For Good Allies—charitable partners that work to support children in need. We’re proud to work with each of these important nonprofits and the volunteers who make their work possible. 

YMCA: Fran and Doug Cameron

Fran Cameron has helped the YMCA with its Hunger Relief Program for more than five years. She’s also worked with her husband, Doug, to turn their Marietta home garage into a thrift store—Doug even serves snacks to those waiting in line to shop. The couple also brings items of need to YMCA families twice each week, and they go out of their way to find and deliver other items requested.

“We believe in giving back because we’re part of the community, and people in a community should help each other. We can make life less challenging for others, and that makes our lives more meaningful. We love seeing smiling faces when something we did helps others, especially when it’s a child playing with a toy or looking at a book. It warms us to the core.”

— Fran and Doug Cameron

Bert’s Big Adventure: Bert Weiss and Kristin Klingshirn

Well-known Atlanta radio personality Bert Weiss co-founded Bert’s Big Adventure, which provides all-expenses-paid journeys to Walt Disney World for children (and their families) living with chronic and terminal illnesses, more than 22 years ago. Since then, he’s played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of more than 270 children and families facing significant challenges.

The Bert Show co-host Kristin Klingshirn serves as chairwoman on the board of Bert’s Big Adventure, volunteering thousands of hours over the past 13 years to serve children with chronic and terminal illnesses.

“When you have a platform our size, I feel like it’s a responsibility to help the community. On a personal level, I mean, why are we here if it’s not to help each other through life? No one can do life alone.”

— Bert Weiss

City of refuge: Mary Sellers Conley

Mary Sellers Conley got involved with City of Refuge years ago through National Charity League. Still in high school, she’s become known for the bookmobile she started that regularly brings age-appropriate books to children at City of Refuge and other nonprofits serving Atlanta’s children in need.

“I started the Best Little Bookmobile because ever since I was little, I’ve loved reading. And when I found out others in my community didn’t have the same access to books as I did, it broke my heart …. With each stop, I get to meet new people and hear different stories. My mom and I have always said that we leave each stop happier than when we arrived. It’s so important for others to give back because there are so many people who lack crucial resources and opportunities.”

—Mary Sellers Conley

St. Vincent de Paul Georgia: Dirk van der Grinten

Military veteran Dirk van der Grinten began volunteering with St. Vincent de Paul Georgia (SVDP) more than 10 years ago, helping restock shelves at SVDP’s community food pantry in Chamblee. That simple act of kindness inspired him to do more, and so he hatched a plan to create a “handyman ministry” that would help fund SVDP Georgia’s efforts. Charging clients $25 per hour for his services, Dirk has managed to bring in $50,000 for SVDP over the last decade—and he plans to continue for as long as possible.

“When people hire me, they often tell me they’re excited to know the money is going back into the community to help their neighbors in need. It opens their eyes to how they, too, can contribute—not just financially, but with their time and talents …. Every hour I work means more families can keep the lights on, stay in their homes or put food on the table, and knowing that keeps me motivated to continue.”

—Dirk van der Grinten

Ser Familia: Adela Garcia

As a past Ser Familia client and cancer survivor who at one time needed the support offered at Ser Familia, Adela Garcia has made serving others at this important nonprofit a big part of her life. Ser Familia staff regards her as family, and she’s played a pivotal role as a volunteer, lovingly inspiring others who are living with illnesses of their own.

“I’ve supported Ser Familia for a while now, helping them build a rapport with the Latino community, talking about health and the needs of each person, especially when it comes to the challenges of health costs. It’s important for me as a form of gratitude to support Ser Familia because they helped me and my family with therapy, emotional and financial support, workshops and in many other ways.”

—Adela Garcia

Covenant House Georgia: Bonnie Highlander

Bonnie Highlander has been a dedicated volunteer yoga instructor at Covenant House Georgia for the past two years, creating a calming and supportive environment for the youth to relax and learn healthy coping skills. Her sessions provide a much-needed break in their day, offering both physical and mental wellness. Beyond yoga, Bonnie has also been a tremendous help during the holidays, providing meals that bring warmth and holiday spirit to the youth during what can be a challenging time.

“I volunteer because I believe in the youth. I believe when we provide our unhoused youth support, guidance and a safe place, they can prosper and grow into wonderful contributors to our society and lead inspiring lives.”

—Bonnie Highlander

Thank you for learning more about our Difference Makers. We’re honored to partner with them and the organizations they represent.