USO Hawaii Volunteer of the First Quarter - Jena Nix

We are thrilled to announce that Jena Nix has been selected as USO Hawai'i’s Volunteer of the Quarter for Q1 2025! Since joining the USO team in October 2023, Jena has demonstrated unwavering dedication, enthusiasm, and a heart for service. Though she had no prior military experience, her passion for supporting Service Members was ignited after hearing about the USO from members of her church. Without hesitation, she reached out to see how she could contribute—and the impact she has made since then has been nothing short of extraordinary. Jena has become a cornerstone of the USO PTA volunteer team, faithfully volunteering every Tuesday, a day now affectionately known as “Tu-J’s-Day” on our monthly calendar. She is the first to step up for any task, always greeting Service Members with a warm smile and ensuring they feel welcome the moment they arrive. Our Center Manager quickly noticed that Jena would eagerly rush to greet incoming Soldiers, making sure she was the first friendly face they saw. After welcoming them, she never hesitates to engage with those in the Center, making each interaction personal and meaningful. Beyond her exceptional hospitality, Jena takes great pride in preparing food for our Service Members. Whether it’s crumble cake, chicken sloppy Joes, chili with cornbread, or ham and biscuit sandwiches, every dish is served with care and a genuine love for the troops. As a proud Texas native, she delights in sharing traditional Texas-style meals, often preparing up to 50 plates at a time. Her cooking is so well-loved that many Service Members return asking for “Ms. Jena” by name—a testament to the lasting impression she leaves on everyone she meets. Jena’s impact on our operations is immeasurable. Her ability to work independently allows staff members to focus on essential duties, knowing that she is always there to support the team. She volunteers consistently, even when troops are not in rotation, ensuring the Center remains clean, organized, and ready for the next group of Soldiers. Jena’s dedication has made her an indispensable part of our USO PTA family, and her fellow volunteers love working alongside her, often remarking on her infectious “gusto” and positive attitude. Perhaps most inspiring is Jena’s personal growth during her time with the USO. Initially describing herself as “quiet as a mouse,” she has since stepped out of her shell, taking the initiative to engage with Service Members, spark friendly conversations, and form meaningful connections. Whether discussing life back home, military experiences, or even exchanging recipes, Jena ensures that every Soldier who walks through our doors feels valued and supported. Jena, we cannot thank you enough for your dedication, kindness, and commitment to the USO mission. Your presence at USO PTA has enriched the lives of countless Service Members, and your hard work does not go unnoticed. Congratulations on being named USO Hawai'i’s Volunteer of the Quarter—this recognition is well deserved! If you are inspired by Jena’s story and would like to make a difference, please consider signing up to volunteer at volunteer.uso.org. Together, we can continue to support our service members and their families in meaningful ways.