This year’s Shining Star exemplifies the very best of Assistance League volunteerism.  She personifies the “enthusiastic participation in chapter activities” award criterion and is a consummate leader.  She is a wonderful example for us all.   

 She is an avid runner, is active in her church, and on online Jazzerciser.  She is so proud of her daughters’ accomplishments, partnering with one daughter to help produce the now famous TPT video showcasing all that is great about Assistance League.   

Since joining Assistance League in 2013, she has chaired Membership and created the Above and Beyond cards, served as Chapter Secretary, and has been a mainstay at the Thrift Shop, serving as its co-leader for two years.  This year, in addition to almost daily contributions at the Shop, she has co-chaired Literacy Plus where she has been a reading buddy for years.  She has participated in Clothes for Kids and ASK, and was part of a chapter contingent on a “Women Build” activity at Habitat for Humanity. 

It is at the Shop where she most makes her influence felt.  Her leadership of the annual Jingle Belles holiday merchandise pricing and display has introduced scores of brand-new Assistance League members to the fun and sense of accomplishment one gains by working at the Shop.  She is a wonderful mentor and trainer, evidenced by her taking on the orientation and training of new Day Managers.  Her retail display skills are legendary.  In addition to “dressing the girls” every week, she is a master at organizing our merchandise in a way that gets the Shop rave reviews for its appearance.  She has led the Fashion Avenue consignment program, and is instrumental in ensuring that our Shop processes are disciplined and documented.  She was a key member of the recent Online Ad Hoc Committee and continues to date as a “decider” where she has always had a good eye for the upscale and designer items that deserve special pricing.    

This Shining Star shines best when leading at the Shop.  People love working with her, ask for her advice, value her sense of humor and kindness, and seek to emulate her commitment and energy for the Shop’s success.  Her energy is boundless, and infectious.    

And, as icing on the cake, this Shining Star has stepped forward to lead the Shop for next year. 

We honor and recognize this year’s most deserving Shining Star, Ann Derby.