Husband and wife honored for two decades of helping out at TPA

Travelers passing through Tampa International Airport may not realize that a small desk on the Main Terminal's second-floor Ticketing Level has changed countless lives. 

The Travelers Aid office, operated by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, offers help to anyone facing unexpected challenges while traveling. This week, two of its longest-serving volunteers, George and Virginia Schultz, were recognized by Crisis Center leaders and TPA executives for an incredible milestone: 20 years of service.

The pair got a special visit this week from Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens and other members of the TPA leadership team to thank them for their many years of service.

“George and Virginia are part of the reason TPA has the reputation it does,” said John Tiliacos, Chief Operating Officer at Tampa International Airport. “It’s the work that they do day in and day out that makes us one of America’s favorite airports.”

For two decades, the Schultzes have been a steady, compassionate presence for travelers in need, whether that means helping a stranded visitor find family, offering diapers to a parent in distress, or simply providing directions and a friendly smile. Both retired teachers, the couple began volunteering shortly after leaving the classroom.

Virginia joined first, encouraged by a friend who was already volunteering at the airport.

“She said, ‘You would really enjoy doing this,’” Virginia recalled. “I came in, got paired with another volunteer to learn the ropes, and when he couldn’t come anymore, George had just retired, so I said, ‘Why don’t you come with me?’”

George followed soon after. 

“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 the years, they’ve assisted travelers in every imaginable situation, from lost luggage and torn suitcases to 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.”

Beverly Thompson, Travelers Aid Coordinator at TPA, said the couple’s dependability and compassion set them apart. 

“They are exceptional and very dependable. If someone calls off last minute and they’re available, they’ll come in and fill in. They go above and beyond helping all the guests,” she said. “They’ve put in thousands of hours over the years, and we appreciate them so much.”

Travelers Aid at TPA operates seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing support to anyone in crisis or disconnected from their support systems. Services include help with phone calls, emergency items, local referrals, and connections to Crisis Center of Tampa Bay resources. The program is part of the Crisis Center’s mission to ensure that no one has to face a crisis alone.

The program’s continued success is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Signature Aviation General Manager Bill Sneesby and his team, whose support helps maintain the booth’s presence in the Airport.

For George and Virginia, the true reward is the people they meet. 

“It’s nice to interact with different people from all over, to hear their stories, sometimes sad, sometimes happy,” Virginia said. “It’s just about helping however you can.”

Congratulations to George and Virginia Schultz on 20 years of extraordinary service, and thank you to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and Signature Aviation for continuing to make compassionate care part of the travel experience.

Interested in Volunteering?

Travelers Aid is always looking for new volunteers. Visit crisiscenter.com for more information or click here to apply.

To Reach the Travelers Aid Desk at Tampa International Airport:

Call (813) 870-8797 or visit the booth on the Main Terminal's Ticketing Level next to the USO office.