Wendy Colegrove Recognized for Toy Drive Efforts

Wendy Colegrove (second from left) was named United Way Volunteer of the Month for her efforts to help needy families at Christmas. Congratulating her are (from left) Kristina Beamish and Jade Seelye of United Way, and Sherry Cece, a coworker at The St. Ignace News who nominated Mrs. Colegrove for the award.

Wendy Colegrove of St. Ignace was named United Way's Volunteer of the Month January 10 for her work each year to raise money to purchase Christmas gifts for families in need.

An organizer for the Toys for Tots campaign in Mackinac County, Mrs. Colegrove placed donation canisters around the county, shopped for the perfect toy for each boy and girl on the list, and stored gifts to be wrapped and food to be packaged at her home during December. Gifts were distributed to 53 families, a Cedarville toy drive, plus 100 additional children in time for Christmas.

Community donations of cash and toys supported the effort. Mrs. Colegrove coordinated wish lists with the Department of Human Services and other agencies to reach families.

Mrs. Colegrove, who works as circulation manager at The St. Ignace News, was nominated for the volunteer award by her coworkers. She is married to Ralph Colegrove and they have two daughters, Meghann Colegrove, 17, and Sharman Colegrove, 10, who also helped with this year's Toys for Tots campaign.

Each month, the United Way Volunteer Center's Advisory Committee reviews nominations for the Recognition Spotlight program. This program, which has recognized hundreds of volunteers, honors a volunteer, a volunteer group, and a business each month for dedication to the community.

To nominate an individual, group, or business for United Way recognition, call the United Way Volunteer Center at (906) 253- 9839 for a nomination form. The United Way office is in Sault Ste. Marie.