Volunteer Spotlight: Jackie Sonnett Committed to our Communities. Committed to You.
July 9, 2026
For Jackie Sonnett, community involvement is about protecting the most vulnerable and helping build a safer future for children and families. Jackie, a Credit Analyst at ACNB Bank, was recently elected to the board of the Adams County Children’s Advocacy Center in February 2026. While her board service is new, her connection to the organization and its mission goes back several years. She has long admired the Center’s work supporting children and families through the prevention, identification, investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse.
“Children deserve to grow up safe and this is a topic close to my heart,” Jackie shared. For Jackie, this work is not only important, it is something that requires the entire community to engage. “Child abuse is a community issue and it takes a collaborative effort from everyone in our community to combat abuse. Most everyone has experience or knows someone that has been a victim of abuse.”
She also emphasized the importance of education in prevention, noting that learning how to recognize and respond to warning signs can play a critical role in breaking cycles of abuse. The Adams County Children’s Advocacy Center offers prevention resources designed to help the public better understand and respond to these situations.
As she has begun her board service, one of the most eye-opening realizations has been the scale of need in the community.
“Each year, the Adams County Children’s Advocacy Center receives 500 to 600 referrals,” she said. “The Center’s mission is not only to identify and treat child abuse in our community, but prevention education is a large part of what the organization does.” Jackie currently serves on the Facilities Committee, which is leading a major renovation project at the Brighter Tomorrows Center in Gettysburg. Once complete, the project will nearly triple the organization’s capacity to serve children and families. Groundbreaking is expected in July 2027, with completion anticipated in December 2028.
She is especially excited to contribute from both a community and professional standpoint.
“I am looking forward to assisting in the financing process since it is closely related to my role as a Credit Analyst at ACNB Bank.” Looking ahead, Jackie hopes to become even more involved in prevention efforts, particularly focused on teens and early intervention. “I would love to get more involved in the prevention of child abuse, particularly with teens. The statistics are staggering and awareness, prevention and support are vital.”
Even early in her board journey, she has already found the experience meaningful both personally and professionally. April, recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month, has been especially impactful as she has met fellow volunteers and learned more about the organization’s reach and mission.
“Learning more about ACCAC has helped me better represent the organization to the public,” she said.
At this stage in her life, Jackie also values the time she is able to dedicate to volunteering and the support she receives from her employer.
“The bank is always supportive and flexible to outside commitments that benefit the community we serve.”
She believes that support is a key part of what makes community banking meaningful.
“It is mutually beneficial by strengthening community bonds and investing in the prosperity of the community they provide services to. In this case, we are working to protect children today so that they can become strong community members in the future.”
For anyone considering getting involved, Jackie encourages taking the step.
“The personal rewards you receive from volunteering and helping others outweigh the contribution you make with your time and talents. Having purpose outside of your daily work, social interaction, and the opportunity to develop new skills all contribute to personal growth and satisfaction.”