DANVILLE, Va. — Averett University junior cheerleader Erica Skiddle sat nervously in one of the boardroom's of Danville's Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. Skiddle, surrounded by so many great people who had worked tirelessly to make a difference in the Danville community, felt a little unsure.

However, moments later, Skiddle found out that she had been selected as the Dan River Nonprofit Network's Volunteer of the Year. It was a surreal experience for Skiddle.

"I was surrounded by so many volunteers who had worked so hard to make a difference, I didn't expect to win it," Skiddle said.

While Skiddle was humbled to win the award, it was her desire to pay forward the good things she's received in life unto others in the community.

"By getting involved with some of the organizations I've been involved in, I have realized how blessed I am and it just makes me want to help as many people as I can and pass on my good fortune to them," Skiddle said.

It was an experience that Skiddle had at the Boys and Girls Club Angel Tree Project, hosted by Averett on Nov. 30, that helped her realize her motivation for volunteering. She shared a story about a young boy who while opening presents, realized he'd already received the presents he'd just opened. However, the boy showed the same amount of appreciation as he would've unwrapping the same gift for the first time.

"Watching him, it made me realize how lucky I was," Skiddle said. "My parents do everything they can for me and you have this kid who already has this soccer ball, already has this shirt and he's so thankful just to be getting something."

In the past year, Skiddle has jumped at opportunities to become just as engaged in the community as she is in Averett. She has played big roles in the university's coat drive, the Danville Area Humane Society, tutoring with Averett's Teach It Forward! Challenge and at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Day.

Skiddle credits the three years she's spent at Averett as a motivating factor in her desire to engage in the community.

"Averett Athletics and the CCECC give me the opportunity to serve somebody at least once a week," Skiddle said. "There are ample opportunities to help the community, and I'm glad I've had the opportunity to do so."

As reward for all her hard work, Skiddle received $1,000 from Danville Toyota Scion, which she will donate to an organization of her own choice. She chose to donate the money to the Danville Area Humane Society.

The event was sponsored by Danville Toyota Scion, the Danville Register & Bee and Commonwealth Home Health Care, Inc. and honored local volunteers in the Danville community for their services. Each nominee was chosen from a submission by either a member of the nonprofit or another community member who nominated citizens that represent the spirit of volunteerism and who give back through their time and efforts. Skiddle was one of 11 individuals nominated.