Brighten Your Day

'He Is Like A Guiding Light': 88-Year-Old Contributes 700+ Hours Of Volunteer Service

October 2, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Richmond, Virginia.

Earl “Skip” Bottoms, a humble 88-year-old man who relies on a cane and struggles with hearing, was recently honored with the Acts of Kindness Award by Richmond’s 12 On Your Side. But ask anyone who knows him, and they’ll tell you that his heart has only grown bigger with time

Skip at the hospital / 12 on your side

Skip’s remarkable dedication to helping others, despite his age, is a testament to the power of kindness.

For the past seven years, Skip has volunteered at St. Mary’s Hospital three days a week, doing whatever is needed. From delivering papers to transporting patients in wheelchairs, he’s become a beloved fixture of the hospital. Before the pandemic, he would also visit patients just to offer a listening ear—a simple but meaningful gesture that brightened their day.

Outside the hospital, Skip volunteers with Meals on Wheels twice a week. On top of that, he rescues animals from high-risk shelters, driving them north to safer sanctuaries where they can find new homes.

Skip was speechless when the news team surprised him with the award, which included a cash prize. True to his generous spirit, he immediately announced that $100 of the money would go to help a homeless friend.

Watch the heartwarming moment Skip received his award in the video below.