Donald Demers has contributed more than 1000 volunteer hours at Togus VA Medical Center. With a quiet demeanor and a hearty sense of humor, he puts those he serves at ease. A United States Naval veteran, Don is often the first person with whom patients interact upon arrival, greeting them with a genuine "How can I help you?" He also volunteers extensively in the Home Based Primary Care department.
In addition to his exceptional service at Veterans Affairs, Don also volunteers every week at the Kennebec Valley Humane Society: he cheerfully does the unglamorous chores involved with caring for animals, as well as walking the dogs, playing with the cats, and taking photos of all the pets to help them find their "forever home."
For 15 years, Don has been an adult supervisor for Boy Scout Troop 602 in Augusta.
Don spearheads Cell Phones for Soldiers in Maine; over a 3-year period, he has supervised donation of more than 3,500 used cell phones. In exchange for every phone, a refurbishing facility contributes a $50 phone card to an active-duty military man or woman, resulting in more than $175,000 in calling cards for military members. According to Todd Mahoney at Home Based Primary Care, "Don embodies the core values of the VA: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence."
