Meet Colleen Semler
I started working as a pharmacist when I graduated college. Upon moving to MI from OH, I had 4 children rather quickly and chose to give up my pharmacy license to raise my children. I had always hoped I could "work" in another capacity, and volunteering was a good fit for me while my children were young. Once I started volunteering, I realized how much I loved it! I also used every opportunity to get my children involved with me. Whether I helped in schools, churches, women's and community organizations, or campaign events - I've enjoyed them all!
Having been very fortunate in my life, I've always felt I should give back what God has given me. Whether it's His calling to me, or friends who have inspired me to volunteer, I've tried hard to listen. Each volunteer opportunity has led me to great people and a feeling of making a difference in our little part of the world. The ripple has to start somewhere, right? I'm grateful and blessed to be able to volunteer and will do so as long as I can, God willing.
Meet Rosalie Wright
I started out my work career at Whirlpool Corporation in Benton Harbor. I worked there for 10 years before moving to Kalamazoo. I then worked at the Upjohn Institute for 7 years and retired from The Upjohn Company after 20 years. My two daughters and their husbands have blessed me with 4 wonderful grandchildren who I see as often as possible. By volunteering I believe that I am able to provide a community service which helps not only the people working in the organizations, but in the long run, the people in the community who are most in need. I also enjoy working with the other volunteers as well as with the people in charge of running the programs. Volunteering gives me a good feeling knowing, in some small way, I may be making a difference.