Cheers for volunteers

Jake Heckathorn

Joanie Sorensen grew up in Whitefish. During high school, she was a car hop at Gordy's Drive In and supervisor at City Beach, where she organized the first local swim team.

After graduation, she pursued her degree in nursing at Northern Montana College, in Havre, and the University of Minnesota. It was in Havre that she met her husband Scott. His position as manager of shopping centers led to their residence in several states until 1992, when they returned to make Whitefish their home. They enjoy skiing, boating and swimming and look forward to visits by their two sons and three grandchildren.

Joanie's life is devoted to helping others. As an 18-year member of the Whitefish Soroptimist Club, she does everything from routine duties at the Gift Haus to organizing a dental program for women, working with the Expanding Horizons program for students and serving as club president.

She points with pride to the many civic contributions of the club and "the amazing group of women" who volunteer. She was in the first group of volunteer nurses at the inception of Shepherd's Hand Clinic, a volunteer group which she describes as "just fabulous." Under the auspices of Medical Missions International, but at her own expense, she has made 10 trips to countries such as Ecuador and Haiti to give of her talents as a surgical nurse.

Her mom, Nonie Simons, is now 100 years old, and Joanie has cut back on her volunteerism to spend more time with her. Far from feeling burdened, Joanie feels that a great privilege has been bestowed upon her in that she has always hoped that she would be able to care for her mom in her time of need.

Joanie, you are a remarkable person. Your helping hand has brought comfort and hope to many, and we thank you.

— Jake Heckathorn

This column is dedicated to those who give freely of their time and energy to worthwhile community projects, but whose efforts often go unnoticed. If you know such a person, please e-mail jheckathorn@centurytel.net.