Teresa Hodges spends her days behind an ordinary desk, in a rather extraordinary workplace.
For the past 25 years, she’s worked at the H.B. Robinson Nuclear Plant in Hartsville.
She now spends her days in the financial services department, handling monetary matters for the plant.
While it may seem like a rather routine job, those who know Hodges, say she makes it anything but the daily grind.
In between sending out emails and handling invoices, Hodges spends her days in a whirlwind of volunteerism.
She handles the company’s employee giving campaign, which last year alone, raised more than $90,000.
That money went toward several different organizations including the Make a Wish Foundation, the United Way, the Children’s Miracle Network, the Special Olympics and the American Cancer Society.
Friends say Hodges’ commitment to helping others, goes well beyond the workplace.
She’s also mentors children at North Hartsville Elementary School, and works tirelessly for the Darlington County Disabilities and Special Needs Board.
Close friends say Hodges’ selflessness shines through.
“She just has a heart for people. She sees a need, and she’s just one of those unique individuals that when she sees a need, she knows what needs to be done,” said co-worker, Barbara McCallum.
Hodges says she simply feels obligated to help others who are not as fortunate as herself.
“It means a lot to me because you see the people and the needs that they have and sometimes you feel like these are people that have been forgotten and you’re able to go out…and (see) the smiles that come on their face…it’s amazing how it makes you feel,” said Hodges.
Friends say it’s not just Hodges’ willingness to help others that makes her a hero.
They say it’s her ability to see the needs of others, when she herself is dealing with a tough situation.
“I have a sister that is disabled and she lives with me, so I always have to make sure that there’s someone there to care for her, and sometimes that provides a challenge,” said Hodges.
For Hodges, it’s a challenge she’s willing to overcome.
Not only does she juggle a busy work schedule, she also cares for her family member, and still makes time for the countless others who benefit from her volunteerism.
“She is just that type of person who, to me, lives and outstanding life, and projects that to the people she’s involved with,” said McCallum.
Teresa Hodges says while she’s honored to be called a Pee Dee Hero, she feels the real heroes are the less fortunate people whose lives she continues to touch, on a daily basis.
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