104-Year-Old Virginia McLaurin Honored for Volunteering in D.C.

The District honored a community volunteer who spends about 40 hours per week with students who have severe mental and physical disabilities.

Virginia McLaurin received a standing ovation from the crowd as she accepted her volunteer community service award from Mayor Vincent Gray Tuesday.

The 104-year-old easily took to the microphone.

β€œI really appreciate and thank each and every one,” she said.

Originally from South Carolina, McLaurin lives on upper 13th Street NW, a two-block walk to the Sharpe School where she volunteers.

She apologized for wearing tennis shoes and said she needed her cane for more than walking. β€œI keep the boys and the dogs away with this,” she joked.

In her 104 years, Mrs.McLaurin worked as a housekeeper, nanny and seamstress. She first married at 14 and was widowed at 17.

β€œI always tell people, live the best they know how,” she said. β€œDon’t steal. Don’t cheat.”

She does have one big wish: She'd like to meet President Barack Obama. β€œI didn't think I'd live to see a black president,” she said.

Contact Us