Name: Wanda Marland
Organization: Comfort and Hope
What first inspired you to become involved in the community?
I heard someone speak about foster children and wanted to help.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering in our community?
Knowing that in a small way I am making a foster child’s life a little happier who would not get anything for their birthday.
What type of volunteer work are you or have you been involved in within your community?
Holding blanket workshops since 2004 where the blankets are given free to those going through difficult situations with strangers coming and leaving as friends. I feel like I am providing Comfort and Hope to individuals at their most vulnerable times.
What advice would you give anyone to give back to our communities?
It’s a warm feeling giving back to the community that can’t be obtained in regular life, where right now there is so much of a need, in so many areas. Find a need in any area large or small.
What song best describes you or is the soundtrack to your life?
You light up my lift, you give me hope to carry on by Debbie Boone. The words remind me of making a foster child’s life brighter, Wind Beneath My Wings by Bette Midler.
What is your vision for the future of our community?
That individuals realize how much we can change the community from violence to kindness and the unlimited possibilities we can create if we work together.
What is your best accomplishment/experience in life?
I hear so many times the expression, “You have given me a purpose in life” when they help me with children in foster care.
Who is your role model and Why?
My husband, Bill Marland is my inspiration through out our 49 years we have experienced lots of trials and hospitalizations related to medical issues and he has always remain positive.
A favorite quote that you live by?
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched- they must be felt with the heart. Helen Keller
