Food City has announced the recipients of its annual Claude P. Varney Volunteer Recognition Program, honoring associates across the company for outstanding service to their communities. This year’s top honor goes to Amber Sweet of Abingdon, Virginia.
The program is named in memory of Food City’s former president and board vice-chairman of 47 years, Claude P. Varney, who was known for his compassion and humanitarian service. An independent panel of judges reviews associate nominations, with winners selected based on achievements in health, education, environment, cultural arts, recreation, heritage/history and public service.
One winner is selected from each Food City store, with the field narrowing to 14 district winners, two divisional winners and one overall recipient of the Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award.
“As a company, we’re committed to giving back to the communities we serve, while providing a work environment that enables our associates to grow both personally and professionally as successful members of our team,” said Steven C. Smith, president and CEO of Food City. “Many of our associates volunteer their time and talents in service of charitable organizations throughout the region and we’re proud to recognize their efforts.”
District Winners
This year’s 14 district winners are Amber Sweet, Michelle Bohling, Jessica Boyer, Pamela Clifton, Rachel White, Monica York, Sarah Fennell, Cassie Kiestler, Heather Walkley, Janise Carlton, David Harris, Nathan Ott, Deborah Bennett and Randy Mitchell. Each district winner receives a $250 contribution to the charity of their choice.
Divisional Winners
Michelle Ferguson-Bohling and Heather Walkley were named this year’s divisional winners, each receiving a plaque and a $750 contribution to the charity of their choice.
Bohling, a front-end manager at the Food City in Louisa, Kentucky, has volunteered for 15 years with area domestic violence shelters. As a domestic violence survivor, she is committed to sharing her story to help others. Bohling also has volunteered with The Salvation Army for seven years, assisting with food and clothing drives and helping people complete applications for employment and financial assistance.
“I was raised with the understanding that faith is the currency of the Kingdom, and we truly cannot outgive God,” said Bohling. “To me, volunteering isn’t optional – it’s the essence of agape love. I’ve always believed that being a shepherd to the flock means being there to help anyone and everyone in need.”
Walkley serves as assistant deli manager at the Food City in Loudon, Tennessee. Having previously been homeless, she volunteers with Cold Hands Warm Hearts to prepare and serve food to the homeless community. She also volunteers with SVBC Youth Ministries, mentoring youth through meetings, assisted living bingo nights and weekend conferences, and participates in the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox program.
“I am truly honored and humbled at the blessings this will allow Cold Hands Warm Hearts to use for the homeless members of our community,” said Walkley. “May God continue to use my hands for His work.”
Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award
Amber Sweet, retail recruiter for Food City’s Corporate Support Center in Abingdon, Virginia, was named the 2026 Claude P. Varney Humanitarian Award recipient. Sweet volunteers at Isaiah 117 House, playing with children, preparing meals and assisting with fundraising. She also volunteers with the Boys & Girls Club, helping children with homework and preparing them for the workforce, and serves with Lasagna Love, delivering homemade meals to those in need.
“It is an honor to be recognized among such wonderful peers,” said Sweet. “Mr. Rogers taught me long ago that it is important to focus on the good we can do instead of being overwhelmed by fear. He said, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ Later, I heard someone else add, ‘If you can’t find the helpers, be the helper.’ I’m proud to be a helper, and I encourage others to find ways to be the helper in their communities.”
Sweet will receive a $1,250 contribution to the charity of her choice.
“We’re extremely proud of the difference our associates make in their community by devoting their time and talents in the service of others,” Smith said.
Headquartered in Abingdon, Virginia, K-VA-T Food Stores, Food City’s parent company, operates 164 retail outlets throughout southeast Kentucky, southwest Virginia, east Tennessee, north Georgia and Alabama.
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