CARROLLTON, Va. — News 3 anchor Jen Lewis traveled to Carrollton to find this week’s Everyday Hero. Jane Hobbs has been a volunteer and advocate for individuals with special needs in our community for decades. Jen coordinated with two of Jane’s children to surprise her with the award.
Jane's son, Vernon, lives in New Kent County, and her daughter, Teresa, lives in Surry County. Along the way, they picked up another sibling, Carol. All three converged on the Hobbs home a little ahead of Jen to be on hand for their mom’s award presentation.
Jen and News 3 photojournalist Wade Francom knocked on the door and were greeted by Jane’s husband, Vernon Sr., who was also in on the secret.
Jen found Jane sitting in the living room in her favorite chair and sure enough, Jane was surprised. She was also confused. Jen explained that she knew how since the early 80s, Jane has worked tirelessly on behalf of individuals with special needs in Hampton Roads. That's why Jen came to present her with a News 3 Everyday Hero Award as well as a $300 gift certificate from Southern Bank.
Jane responded with a lot of gratitude and a few tears.
Jane Hobbs' journey began when her daughter, Carol, became ill as an infant, which left her completely blind and with an intellectual disability. Jane was determined to make sure Carol was never denied any opportunity and fought for her inclusion. That led her to help individuals like Carol in our community.
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One example of her work involves the Girl Scouts. Mrs. Hobbs founded the very first Girl Scout troop for young ladies with special needs on the East Coast.
“I made sure they were able to earn their badges, just like any other Girl Scout. We went camping, we learned to make a fire and they sold Girl Scout cookies just like any other girl," said Jane.
Jane has also hosted a catfish round-up, even making sure a local pond was supplied with fish so everyone who attended could reel a little something in.
Over the years, she has set up antique car shows and band festivals to raise money for the Special Olympics. Her “Evening of Elegance” is always a big hit too. Formal dresses, tuxedos, limos, dinner, and dancing make for a memorable night. Mrs. Hobbs says everybody loves to dress up, so why not?
One of her biggest events is the Able R Us Christmas Party. It takes place in Hampton on the first Saturday of each December and it has been going steady for more than 30 years. The guest list is made up of about 450 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, all dressed in their holiday best and ready to dance. Mr. and Mrs. Claus are on hand, as is the occasional Elvis impersonator.
No one leaves the party empty-handed. Every single person gets a gift that’s been donated by a local business. Her daughter, Teresa, works alongside, making sure the kitchen runs smoothly and all the guests have a wonderful afternoon.
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Jane’s heart for giving is boundless and her family beams with pride.
“She’s done so many great things for the community. My entire life my mom’s been doing a lot of things. She’s a role model," said her son Vernon. "She’s done so much that it’s hard to remember all the activities she’s done.”
The list is long and impressive, but one of Jane's greatest passions is advocating on behalf of individuals with special needs.
“These people still need work. It gives them a big self-worth,” said Jane.
Jane continues to strive to get her message to lawmakers about minimum wage and sheltered workshops that employ people with special needs.
Mrs. Hobbs suffered a very serious injury from a fall a few months back. It nearly took her life, but as she says, she’s got more work to do, and she certainly intends to do it.
Congratulations Jane! We appreciate you and it is our honor to recognize you here at News 3.
If you know someone like Mrs. Hobbs who gives so much, nominate them for an Everyday Hero Award.
