On a typical weekday early morning, Matt Pollard is usually already at the center of community action — the schools.
As a dedicated servant in the Wiregrass, he runs a weekly school club, conducts chapel services at Emmanuel Christian School every Tuesday, and occasionally reads books to classes in various area schools. His service also extends to the school’s physical environment, picking up trash and trimming bushes around its buildings, cleaning restrooms at athletic fields and maintaining school signs.
“I believe we worship God through the little and big things every day,” Pollard says. “If I find myself saying ‘Why doesn’t somebody do this?’ or ‘Someone should clean that,’ I realize that I am that somebody, and I do it.”
Pollard, the latest recipient of the Silent Heroes of the Wiregrass Award, quietly makes a meaningful impact in his community. Awarded by Wiregrass Electric Cooperative (WEC) in partnership with WTVY, the honor recognizes unsung heroes who serve their community selflessly. A children’s minister at Rehobeth Baptist Church, Pollard earned this distinction for his involvement with local schools, his church, and the children within them.
Not one to seek recognition or applause, Pollard was taken aback upon learning about his award. But, his modesty doesn’t diminish his impact. His actions resonate within the community he serves, painting a picture of faithfulness and selflessness. And with the $1,000 grant from WEC’s Operation Round Up Foundation, Pollard is heartened by the show of appreciation.
The motivation behind his good deeds? The children. “Jesus did so much for me, and I want to follow Him,” he says. “He’s called me into the ministry to work with kids, to show them the love of Jesus and what He can do for them in their lives. They can reach their full potential in Him.”
This commitment also extends into Pollard’s personal life as a father. He and his wife began their journey as foster parents when they lived in Florida, adopting their first set of twins at 4 months old. Since then, they’ve adopted another child into their family.
For Pollard, it’s about using his time on Earth wisely and prioritizing the important things. In his words, “It’s about living right and doing what He wants us to do, each and every day.”
Against the mundane backdrop of everyday life, Pollard’s quiet dedication stands out.
“Pollard embodies the true spirit of the Silent Heroes of the Wiregrass Award,” says WEC Chief Operating Officer Brad Kimbro. “In these small, everyday acts, he makes a difference in his community. On behalf of Wiregrass Electric and members who donate to Operation Round Up, we extend our thanks to Pollard for setting an example for others to hopefully follow.”