House Joint Resolution 7044, sponsored by Hurt, honors Katie Alexander for her exceptional contributions to her community, culminating in her receipt of the Governor's Volunteer Stars Award. The resolution highlights the significant impact of volunteers in Tennessee, noting that 1.3 million individuals contribute over 99 million hours of service annually, which equates to $2.6 billion for the state's economy. Katie Alexander, a resident of Gibson County, is recognized for her dedication to addressing food insecurity through her initiative, Hand Up: From Hungry to Healthy, which has successfully provided food assistance to those in need.

The resolution details Alexander's extensive volunteer work, including her involvement with ComeUnity Caf and RIFA, where she has organized fundraising drives that collected over 15,000 pounds of food. Additionally, she has collaborated with local schools to establish food pantries and partnered with businesses to support her fundraising efforts. The General Assembly commends her exemplary commitment to volunteerism, which embodies the spirit of the Volunteer State, and extends best wishes for her future endeavors.