Couple Volunteers 20 Years at Tampa Airport Helping Travelers

For 20 years, a small desk on the second floor of Tampa International Airport has been a lifeline for travelers in distress, thanks to two people who simply wanted to help.

George and Virginia Schultz, both retired teachers, have volunteered at the airport's Travelers Aid desk since 2006. This week, Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens and other leaders surprised the couple to celebrate their incredible milestone.

The Travelers Aid office, operated by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, offers support to anyone facing unexpected challenges while traveling. Virginia started first after a friend suggested she'd enjoy the work.

"I came in, got paired with another volunteer to learn the ropes," Virginia recalled. When that volunteer could no longer serve, she invited her newly retired husband to join her.

George didn't hesitate. "Every time you're helping somebody, that's what it's all about," he said. "When we can help someone, it gives you a reason for being."

Over two decades, the Schultzes have assisted travelers in every imaginable situation. They've helped stranded visitors find family, provided diapers to parents in distress, offered directions, and supported people facing serious personal crises.

"Sometimes you get a hearty thank you," Virginia said. "And that's the most important part. People come back and thank you for sending them to where they needed to go."

Sunny's Take

Beverly Thompson, Travelers Aid Coordinator at TPA, says the couple's dependability sets them apart. "They are exceptional and very dependable," she said. "If someone calls off last minute and they're available, they'll come in and fill in." The pair has logged thousands of hours helping guests from around the world.

John Tiliacos, Chief Operating Officer at Tampa International Airport, credits volunteers like the Schultzes for the airport's reputation. "George and Virginia are part of the reason TPA has the reputation it does," he said. "It's the work that they do day in and day out that makes us one of America's favorite airports."

The Travelers Aid desk operates seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing help with phone calls, emergency items, local referrals, and connections to Crisis Center resources. The program continues thanks to sponsorship from Signature Aviation.

For George and Virginia, the reward is the human connection. "It's nice to interact with different people from all over, to hear their stories, sometimes sad, sometimes happy," Virginia said.

Twenty years later, they're still showing up, one traveler at a time.