Volunteering in retirement: Dwight Davis makes the most of his free time
By Madison Nantz Correspondent
For more than two decades, Dwight Davis has been a steady presence in Barbourville, quietly working behind the scenes to help those who need it most. A Barbourville native and 1971 graduate of Barbourville High School, Davis spent his career working in railroading before retiring from the track department, where he helped rebuild and maintain railroad tracks. In retirement, however, his days remain full through his extensive volunteer work across the community.
71-year-old Davis has volunteered with Knox County UNITE and Barbourville’ s First Baptist Church for approximately 20 years. He also gives his time to the Barbourville Tourism Commission, helping with events and community activities throughout the year. Depending on the need, Davis shared that he may volunteer anywhere from 10 to 12 hours in a day, or between 20 and 30 hours a week.
His involvement with Operation UNITE began after he recognized drug use as a growing issue in the area, especially among younger people.
“ I was trying to help get people off of drugs and get them in rehab and making better choices in life,” Davis said, explaining that he saw substance abuse becoming a serious concern for youth in the community.
That realization motivated him to become part of the solution, leading him to support prevention programs and outreach efforts designed to steer people toward healthier choices.
Upward / UNITE Basketball Camp at First Baptist Church with Union Commonwealth University Basketball Team
Photo courtesy of Claudia Greenwood
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