Hands4Hope has selected Shirley Maier as this month's Adult Lead Spotlight! Shirley has been very involved with Hands4Hope this last year volunteering with her husband, daughter, and grandchildren. She was an adult mentor on the Fall Festival Committee and is currently working with the Decorating Committee for the Youth Board Fundraiser. We are so lucky to work with you, Shirley!
How long have you been participating with Hands4Hope?
About 3 years now.
Why did you join Hands4Hope?
I was introduced to Hands4Hope by my granddaughter Samantha when she was in 6th grade. There were all types of events . . . I would help whenever needed. Later, I started going to some of the larger events like the Fall Festival and the annual Hands4Hope Benefit Dinner. I met so many amazing young people and other adult mentors. I found that Hands4Hope is a remarkable program and I love the way the community has supported it.
What outreaches do you usually volunteer with? Which do you enjoy the most?
I have worked with outreach programs at the middle school level the past couple of years. Last year, I worked on the Fall Festival committee which was fantastic. I enjoyed working with my daughter and granddaughter, watching it all come together. I’m planning on working on the committee again this year!
What is your impression/experience with Hands4Hope youth?
Hands4Hope youth are an incredible group of young people. I love hearing their ideas and watching their ideas being executed. They are very passionate about the different outreach programs and what they have accomplished. They have taught me a lot about how this generation communicates! Many are going to graduate this year and I am sure they will go on to do great things, always remembering how important it is to give back to their community.
Overall, what has your experience been like since joining?
I retired a few years ago from Intel Corporation, where I worked with interns and other college students. Hands4Hope allows me to work with young people again, which I have always loved. Hands4Hope teaches young people not only how to give back to their community but how to be leaders. Now it’s even better because I can share this experience with both my granddaughters, Samantha who will start high school in the fall and Colbie who will start Junior High. Hands4Hope has become a family affair and we hope to be involved for many years to come!