Justin Dabney knows first hand the value of teamwork. As a middle and high school student, basketball was his favorite sport and instilled in him a strong foundation in leadership, teamwork, and discipline. All skills he continues to use today as he works with a Virginia Tech research team studying mosquito-borne diseases. Despite his busy academic and professional schedule, Justin finds time to join the Start 1 Spark team and give back to the community by delivering snack kits on a weekly basis. 

 

“Volunteering is important to me because it offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the positive impact you can make on a person, place, or community. Being able to help others not only makes a difference in their lives but also brings a genuine smile to my face,” shares Justin.

 

Growing up, Justin recalls the snacks that always appeared at the end of his games thanks to the team moms. While a small gesture, it made a lasting impression on Justin. “Those moments stuck with me, and I realized how meaningful small acts of kindness can be—not just for players' health and energy, but also for fostering a sense of community. Volunteering with Start 1 Spark felt like the perfect way to give back and pay forward the same kindness I received as a student-athlete.”

 

Justin may view his volunteerism as a small act of kindness, but to the students he delivers to, reliably, each week, he replicates the same feeling of being cared for that he received as a young athlete himself. And we are grateful to have a committed team member working to transform the future.