For many residents of Winslow Township, volunteerism and community engagement are a staple.
It’s what makes the township’s vast 58 square miles feel like a small, hometown community where residents get to know each other. One of them, Sicklerville’s William C. Mitchell Sr., is the epitome of that.
A veteran who did three tours in Vietnam, Mitchell works for the Atlantic City Electric Company, a position that helped him discover Winslow as a place he wanted to call home. He and his wife Eartha raised their three children in Sicklerville.
Mitchell has spent decades helping to shape the community with his service at Christ Care Unit Mission Baptist Church and volunteerism at local nonprofits. He has also volunteered with Concerned Men of Winslow, helped with neighborhood cleanup projects and worked as a youth leader, in addition to being a member of the Association of Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs.
Today, Mitchell is a deacon and the director of facilities at Lighthouse of Deliverance Gospel Church in Lindenwold.
“Serving my country taught me that every person has a responsibility to help where they can,” he said. “I’ve always believed that healthy communities are built when neighbors look out for one another. That’s why I love living in Sicklerville.
“There’s a sense of family here that you don’t find many other places.”
Mitchell’s commitment to service has extended to local government; he’s a 15-year member of the township planning board. During his tenure, Mitchell was known for his thoughtful approach to projects and focus on preserving the character and future of the community.
“William always considered every project with common sense and genuine care for the residents,” explained Mayor Marie Lawrence. “He understood the importance of balancing progress while protecting the values that make Winslow so special.”
Despite the praise, Mitchell remains modest about his contributions. He enjoys a quieter lifestyle these days with his family and continues to learn about another love of his life – flying. But his concern for Winslow has not abated.
“I just care about this town and the people in it,” he noted. “If you can help make things a little better for someone else, then it’s worth doing.”
