Volunteer Spotlight: Nancy

Guest post by Nancy Resch, Goodman Volunteer

I’m Nancy and I’m an import from Central Wisconsin, just east of Wausau – the area I was born and raised, went to school, raised my children, worked and finished my career in. But thanks to the pandemic, life changed and priorities became more focused. I sold my home of 16 years and moved to the Madison area last June. I’m closer to two of my children and grandchildren. Life is very good!

My career choice was education. I worked 36 years in various positions related to education. I was a principal for more than 20 years and loved every minute of it. I worked in several school districts across Wisconsin, from small to very large schools. Each unique in their makeup and opportunities they provided. I was blessed and learned a lot from each one.

I volunteered and worked several years in a hospice program and in the Aspirus Family House, which was a place for guests to stay who were going through long-term treatments or traveled a distance for medical care. Listening and supporting people going through traumatic events was humbling. It was the hardest job I ever loved!

After moving to the Madison area, I wanted to continue to give back to my new community. My search for opportunities led me to Goodman. I work with the senior meal program. Every day that I work is like getting together with family over a shared meal. Everyone in the program is supportive, welcoming and kind. I absolutely love being a part of the program.

I have also volunteered to assist with the Scratch computer club offered by UW-Madison students for fourth and fifth graders at Goodman. It’s amazing how excited students are to learn computer programming, to share their projects and their willingness to help each other. All this after they’ve put in a full day at school. Amazing!

Yeah, moving to Madison was a big step for me, but one I am so happy I took. There is always something to do, someone to support, opportunities to help others. All this while still spending more time with my own children! How could life get any better?