Marine for 22 years, VA volunteer for 13 years

There is a sign outside the volunteer office of the Chattanooga VA Clinic that reads, “Volunteers are not paid, not because they are worthless but because they are priceless.”

Joseph Prevo and his wife of 62 years, Louise, are definitely priceless at the clinic. Prevo retired from the Marine Corps after serving 22 years—including service in Vietnam. Originally from Michigan, his last duty station was in Chattanooga, which he now calls home. “I just love it here,” he said.

When he retired from the military, Prevo worked 20 years as a security officer for the clinic. After retiring for a second time, he began volunteering at the clinic… for another 13 years. His wife Louise joined him and has volunteered for the last eight of those years. Louise loves coming in with her husband but, when asked, she laughs and says she likes working separately in the clinic.

The couple of 62 years comes in every morning to brew Prevo’s own special blend of coffee for the Veterans and then go their separate ways to wherever they are needed.

“I enjoy volunteering,” Prevo said. “I get exercise and I get to help the Veterans.”

Couple has volunteered thousands of hours

Prevo and his wife are very important members of the Chattanooga team, and everyone looks forward to starting their day with the duo. During their 13 years of volunteering, the couple has logged 18,383 volunteer hours at the clinic.

Prevo also volunteers more than 500 hours per season for Toys for Tots and supports the Chattanooga Ronald McDonald House with their “Pop Tabs” collection project. He not only donates manpower hours but life-saving blood donations, with over 10 gallons donated to Blood Assurance.

Outside of his volunteering role, he is a prominent figure in the Chattanooga community and has received multiple awards, including a commendation by Governor Bill Lee for Extraordinary Service to Veterans at the Chattanooga Clinic.

He also received a certificate of appreciation from Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly for his many years of service to the country and the  Veteran community. Our volunteers at the Chattanooga clinic are truly priceless, and the Prevo duo proudly represents the spirit of the Tennessee Volunteer State.