Krysta Bannister has been volunteering to help others since she was six years old. She is 20 years old, a college student, fulltime employee and always willing to make time to volunteer.

Her volunteer career began when she accompanied her mother to work at nursing homes where she would “do the ladies hair and exercise with them.” She has accumulated some 15 years of volunteer service in her church and community.

After the Katrina disaster, several evacuees arrived in Killeen. Krysta was on the front lines offering help. She organized a list of evacuee needs and set about recruiting assistance and donations.

Krysta has volunteered for many positions in her church over the years spending a lot of time with youth groups. She enjoys mentoring girls and planning Bible study and activities for the youth groups.

She has not been directly affected by cancer but the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life knows Krysta’s volunteer skills very well. She serves as Activities Chair for Relay For Life.

The former Mayor of Killeen, Maureen Jouett, writes, “Krysta Bannister volunteered her time and donated countless hours as a member of the City of Killeen Youth Advisory Commission where she participated in numerous activities including Make-A-Difference Day, Killeen Sister Cities International Festival, Adopt-A-Roadside and Celebrate Killeen Events.”

Krysta says her hobby is taking jobs others do not want. Krysta says, “I just want to help.”

Perhaps the most passionate expression of Krysta’s volunteerism comes from written letters of recommendation from 8th grade girls Krysta has been mentoring. “Wherever she can find volunteer work, she will help.” Another wrote, our dance team “was a booty shaking team. After she helped us, we were more of a dance team. Even after she had to stay up until 1 a.m., she got up at 5.00 a.m. to get to practice. She is a true inspiration to me. I love Krysta."