Author: Pam Olander
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”
Elizabeth Andrew
Melissa and I first met when our boys (Brooks and Ryan) were in the 3rd grade playing football. Although the boys were at different elementary schools, I really got to know Melissa and how active she was when it came to volunteering at various school activities. I tried to do the same at my children’s school and I think this was something we both had in common.
Flash forward about 7 years (I believe) and the boys are both in High School now, still playing football. I get a call from Melissa. She is trying to convince me to help her co-chair the Shawnee Mission East Auction. I am very hesitant as I see this as a HUGE undertaking, but Melissa is confident that we can do this. “We will make a great team. Our strengths and weaknesses will compliment each other. It will be FUN”, she comments. After a bit more convincing, I agree. It is here that our friendship deepened. That Auction turned out to be a huge success, and one of the biggest events to grow out of that was the “Black and Blue BBQ” This was a party that truly was Melissa’s brain child. We sold tickets to attend one of the most fun parties/BBQ that the High School had ever seen. The party was hosted by the Anthonys, the Olanders and 3 other families. As a matter of fact, that event became a tradition at every high school auction to follow for years and may still be going on today. She was so right, we made a great team, and had a ton of fun!
After pairing up with Melissa for that event, I was blessed to co-chair several other events over the years with her, including the Renovation Sensation Homes Tour. Each and every time, Melissa had to talk me into doing the events, but I quickly learned that I would work with her any day, every day. Each and every time, she gave all of her heart to these events to make sure others not only had a good time, but money was raised for great causes. She was truly the best Volunteer I know. I learned so much working with her and every time I’m asked to volunteer today, I try to do so with a happy heart, just like Melissa would.
Miss you my dear friend!
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