Senior Volunteer of the Year - Heide McNichols

Heide McNichols has committed every day to serving high risk children in Grand Traverse County by mentoring and assisting them in a variety of skills. As a volunteer for the Senior Corps-Foster Grandparent Program, Heidi serves as a consistent role model through helping students one-on-one with reading, increasing their motor skills, literacy, and self-esteem. Additionally, Heide has spent countless hours providing transportation to children who are part of the court system and mentoring them when they need it the most. Her volunteerism also extends to helping women who have experienced abuse and trauma by assisting client victims at emergency shelters, improving environmental initiatives, and addressing food security issues in the community. At the age of 76, Heide continues to help inspire other volunteers through her success. Her true gift is her selfless focus on what is best for each person, giving them individual attention. Her willingness to help those in her community is inspirational.