Jill Norris, the city of Franklin’s Marty and Carolyn Williams Volunteer of the Year, in costume for the Historic Artcraft Theatre’s Sponsorship Party in 2020.
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None of the work was done for attention.
Jill Norris gives her time in a myriad of different ways, from supporting local preservation efforts to mentoring young people to helping individuals she’s met through difficult times in their lives. She can often be found at the Historic Artcraft Theatre during events, and for years has done makeup to turn costumed volunteers into Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow and others during the theater’s annual showing of “The Wizard of Oz.”
Volunteering is something she was called to do, and if Norris had her way, her efforts would go unnoticed except by those who benefit from them.
“Sometimes, people look for their purpose in life, and I’d like to think the good Lord maybe put me on this earth to quietly see a need and step in when I can,” she said.
Enough people have been impacted by Norris’ work that it could not be overlooked. For her time, she was awarded the city of Franklin’s Marty and Carolyn Williams Volunteer of the Year Award, a distinction intended to honor individuals whose selfless service makes an impact in the community.
From helping with Franklin Heritage’s special events to mentoring young people to assisting with a variety of events meant to improve the downtown area, Norris has shown the value of giving time for your city.
“Jill Norris has served our community and been a pillar of volunteerism with many different organizations. We are honored to present her with the 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award. She is most deserving and we are grateful for her service,” said Mayor Steve Barnett said in a statement.
Franklin mayors have been honoring volunteers since 2016, when Joe McGuinness created the Marty and Carolyn Williams Volunteer of the Year Award. The distinction was named after the Williamses, Franklin residents known for their exemplary commitment of time, energy and efforts to the Franklin community. The creation of the award ensures that those individuals working to improve the city are recognized, Barnett said.
Norris is a deserved recipient, Barnett said.
Having grown up in Franklin and returning as an adult, Norris spends most of her time working as a pediatric physical therapist in the area. When she’s not busy with clients, she’s often spending her time volunteering.
Norris has served on the Franklin Heritage board for almost 20 years. Her presence has been felt in too many ways to count, said Rob Shilts, executive director of the organization.
“Jill has never been afraid to try something, and she has an eye for it,” he said.
For the Historic Artcraft Theatre’s annual sponsorship party — one of, if not the biggest event Franklin Heritage holds each year — Norris has been in charge of decorating. In 2022, as the Artcraft Theatre was celebrating its 100th anniversary, she helped turn the theater and street party into a Roaring ’20s-themed extravaganza.
“That’s taken on a life of its own,” Shilts said. “She continues to do this for us. She’s a good friend.”
She has also served in a number of other Franklin Heritage events, including organizing the annual Garden Walk through downtown and leading the group’s community and volunteer committees.
From Norris’ perspective, the success of the events have been mainly attributed to the overall effort of volunteers, instead of anything she’s done.
“I’m accepting this award for the team. We have such a wonderful team there that I’ve worked with over the years. Everyone gives of their own talents,” she said. “Any time we have an event, it seems monumental in the beginning, but then everybody comes in and does their part.”
When not busy with Franklin Heritage, Norris offers her time to mentor youth, including those who are interested in pediatric physical therapy. Recently, she’s been helping an older adult in need of assistance and friendship in a variety of ways. She rescues dogs, rabbits and other animals when she learns of one in need.
During Discover Downtown Franklin’s various projects and events, she’s always willing to lend a hand.
Jess Giles, the executive director of Discover Downtown Franklin as well as a Franklin Heritage volunteer, nominated Norris for the award.
“She’s a volunteer who makes other volunteers enjoy their experience,” Giles said. “She makes you feel like you’re a part of something important and worthwhile for your community.”
During the presentation of the award on May 1, Norris emphasized how much the award meant to her, particularly with Marty and Carolyn Williams’ names attached to it.
“This is especially meaningful because it’s accepting an award in honor of Carolyn and Marty, who are good friends,” she said. “I can tell you, I think of Marty often when I volunteer — probably every time I volunteer — because he and Carolyn set an example of selfless volunteerism.”
True to character, Norris wants to use the award to draw attention to volunteering and helping the community. Her hope is that other people understand how even seemingly small efforts can ripple through other people.
“If you ask me what blessings I’ve had in life, I’ve been blessed to live in Franklin, and I’ve been blessed with some dear friends I’ve made through volunteering. You’re going to meet good people, and make their community a better place,” she said. “If you can help an individual, help a student who needs some mentoring or tutoring, you can really change a life.”
