Why I Volunteer: Michelle Dale Jernigan

Raising two girls in Sonoma, Michelle Dale Jernigan volunteered at each school they attended and then stayed involved even after they’d moved on. Both daughters now attend Chapman University, but Michelle is still dedicated to supporting Sonoma students and schools.

“It’s important to know faces and names, get involved and stay involved,” she says. “That’s how we stay connected to community.”

Michelle has been part of the team transforming the Red & White Ball into a community picnic open to all, and has been a fundraising ambassador. SVEF staff call her the “teen wrangler” because she helps organize student events such as senior day visits to elementary schools.

For Michelle, supporting local public schools is about building a stronger community. “When we all have skin in the game, it helps all kids, not just our own, and that makes Sonoma Valley a better place for everyone.”

If you'd like to learn about occasional volunteer opportunities with SVEF, email [email protected].

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