Meet our April Volunteer, France Delle Donne, and learn about what inspires her to do the great work she does!
Why/when did you start volunteering with PCM?
I began serving on the PCM Nursery School Advisory Board in 1995 alongside Craig Dodd and Vicki Willson (among others) when our then toddler son first attended, followed by his sister. I recall meeting some of the wonderful staff then including PCM members Linda Gaden, Nancy Gray, Kim Hallett, Katherine Henckler, and Jane Whitehead.
What is your favorite volunteer activity?
While at PCM my favorite volunteer activities are serving as Deacon, writing cards to Spring Hills residents, and distributing food at Table of Hope. I also enjoy greeting & ushering. The most rewarding volunteer work done at area nonprofits has been in finding ways to elevate the visibility of the organizations, creating meaningful collaborative opportunities, and connecting people.
However, one specific memory comes to mind. It was when I served on a week-long mission trip with our church and others to help rebuild homes in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, after Hurricane Katrina ravaged the city in the summer of 2005. It was a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. Dave Mutchler and Sue Woodruff, among others, were there too.
What’s the best piece of advice someone has given you?
My mother taught me the value of maintaining good relationships. My father taught me to treat everyone with respect.
Tell us three of your hobbies:
Making soup, reading current events and historical novels, and traveling.
Favorite food:
Linguini carbonara, a crisp green salad with a dijon vinaigrette, and dark chocolate mousse. (I’d gladly also have a great cheeseburger and onion rings!)
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
To prevent wars from ever starting.
If you could jump inside any book, fiction or nonfiction, where would you go?
I’d travel back in time to witness the life of “Eleanor of Aquitaine”, one of the great heroines of Europe during the Middle Ages, as written by Alison Weir.
What historical figure would you want to meet and why?
I’ve been steadfast since my teen years in wanting to meet either Martin Luther King, Jr. or Mahatma Ghandi; both adopted nonviolent resistance while advocating for civil rights, equality, dignity, and independence. The obstacles and challenges they faced during their journeys were heroic. Their shared humanity, conviction, and humility inspirational. Their masterful oratorical skills captivating. And their disinterest in seeking power, fame, and fortune for themselves exemplary.
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Yes!
