Starting her volunteer career 20 years ago as a coach and board member for NOSA soccer, Nancy Pope has dedicated a large portion of her life to helping others.
“My parents were always involved in everything I did growing up and I decided from that moment that I had kids that if I was going to be there watching them, I might as well help out and encourage others to do so as well,” Nancy said.
Currently Nancy volunteers as a board member for the Woodward Education Foundation and treasurer for the Woodward Boomer Touchdown Club. But Nancy’s favorite title was given to her from the kids, Momma Pope.
“I think the best thing is when you are doing something special for the kids and they are so appreciative,” Nancy said. “Every Thursday night during football season, we feed the high school football team. Not one night goes by without words of appreciation from the prayers and they are so genuine.”
Every day volunteering looks a little different for Nancy. Fundraising starts in the summer for the football team, so Nancy’s summers are spent working with businesses, then when season begins, she is working with the coaches to make sure the needs of the team is met.
“One thing I have learned over the years is that coaches cannot do this by themselves,” Nancy said. “Their job is to coach, and that is what we want them to do. All the extras that go into making the season special for the kids takes a community effort. Woodward has always been great about supporting our kids and we are always looking for an opportunity to get more parents involved.”
