Board member Melissa Gee has supported the Joseph Maley Foundation since its founding in 2008 – through her time volunteering for events and programs, and through her generous support as a local business owner. Melissa, a hairstylist of 18 years, and owner of Salon G in Zionsville, loves yoga, relaxing on the beach, and animals. She continues to give to JMF, year after year. Keep reading to learn why.
How long have you been a board member?
I’ve been on the board since the founding of JMF.
You began as a volunteer with our Joseph Maley Friends program – can you speak to this experience?
I helped to train puppeteers for the Joseph Maley Friends Program when it first started. I really enjoyed seeing the kids get excited about the scripts and seeing everything come to life. It is such a unique way to teach children about disabilities!
You are a constant supporter of JMF not only as a board member and volunteer, but as a small business owner. Can you speak to what drives this generosity of time and resources when it comes to JMF?
As a small business owner, I recognize the importance of supporting organizations that have an impact on our local community. JMF continues to change the lives of people I come in contact with and beyond. I like the feeling of connectivity.
From a personal standpoint, I continue to support JMF because I get the opportunity to be around some of the kindest, most welcoming people I’ve ever met. They are family.
If you could describe JMF in one word what would it be, and why?
Determined. Because JMF is dedicated to their mission and will not stop until they have served as many children as they possibly can!
What is your favorite JMF event, and why?
Favorite ongoing JMF event would be the Run, Walk, Roll. It’s summertime and there are so many fun things for the whole family, and the course is pretty. I love running behind the zoo! Favorite new JMF event is definitely the Butterfly Ball! Dressing up and dancing are two of my favorite things, especially when I get to do them for a great cause!
This is our year of stories – what’s your favorite JMF story?
I love it when my friends have called to tell me the Joseph Maley Friends puppeteers have visited their kids schools and how much they learned. Having been involved in Joseph Maley Friends from the very beginning, I love hearing how it has grown and continues to educate children.