Volunteer Partner Spotlight: Michele Harvey

Michele with her husband Pat and grandchildren

Michele Harvey has volunteered for Children’s Cancer Partners since 2016. Michele is often in the Children’s Cancer Partners office assisting with everything from birthday boxes that are sent out to our children during their birthday month to stuffing envelopes for the latest appeal. Michele plays a pivotal role in organizing other volunteers to assist with many volunteer opportunities. She rallies her Trinity Circle group to help with appeal mailings and even the delicious baked goods that were at the 2022 Cribbs Kitchen Burger Cook-Off benefiting Children’s Cancer Partners.

Michele has brought her passion of volunteerism to her family. Michele’s husband, Pat, can be found at any Children’s Cancer Partners fundraising event. Most recently, Michele and her granddaughter assisted our team with the packing of birthday boxes. We are so grateful for Michele and her dedication to our children.

Children’s Cancer Partners was able to catch up with Michele Harvey:

Children’s Cancer Partners: What made you choose to volunteer for Children’s Cancer Partners?

Harvey: I learned about the wonderful work of Children’s Cancer Partners (formerly Children’s Security Blanket) through Tommy Russell, co-founder and a fellow church member. I was so touched by the love and care and meaningful services provided not only to children diagnosed with cancer, but to their families, including their siblings. Elsie Wright, other members of our church circle, and I began volunteering several years ago and we’ve been able to get other members of our congregation at Trinity United Methodist Church (UMC) involved.

Children’s Cancer Partners: What’s your favorite volunteer activity?

Harvey: I most enjoy helping with the annual Christmas party held for all the families served by Children’s Cancer Partners. It’s such a joyous event and the children are so excited to be there with their siblings and other cancer patients participating in holiday activities

Children’s Cancer Partners: After almost 6 years of volunteering for us, why do you choose to continue to give us your time?

Harvey: I’m so grateful for Children’s Cancer Partners and the the important work they do, and I’m happy to help in any way I can.  I enjoy working with fellow volunteers from Trinity and I have had the opportunity to get to know other wonderful volunteers, as well.

Children’s Cancer Partners: Is there anything else you would like to share?

Harvey: After 28 years as a teacher of special needs children, I am enjoying retirement!  Attending live music performances, walking in the neighborhood with my audiobooks, and having lunch with friends are favorite activities. I continue to be very involved at Trinity UMC and volunteer with other local organizations, including League of Women Voters.  I enjoyed travel adventures with my husband, Peyton, prior to COVID. I’m always delighted to get together with our immediate and extended family, and especially enjoy being with our grandchildren, Ella (8) and Gaver (5).  Ella helped me pack birthday boxes at Children’s Cancer Partners when she visited last week!