Jane Frerichs

 

For many years Jane Frerichs was only known around Heartland’s Adult Day Care as the “elf” – someone who came and went with anonymity, leaving in her wake colorful, creative decorations on the dining tables… and joy for the ADC participants. 

 

Anonymity truly is Jane’s basic volunteer philosophy.  In fact it took eight years to get her to agree to this interview, then only under the premise that others may also be encouraged to volunteer and find fulfillment through giving.  “Volunteering is just between me and God,” she explains.  “I much prefer to keep it that way when I can.” 

 

Jane’s first introduction to Heartland was when she was asked to teach line dancing in the mid-90’s, an activity which lasted nearly two years.  In 2000, she responded to a “craft person needed” ad in Heartland’s ADC and felt she could balance this with her existing schedule. 

 

And indeed, Jane’s volunteer schedule is a fine tuned “balancing” act; both in time management and in variety.  Her most solemn volunteer role has been with cancer patients and their families the past 11 years at the hospital and as a Hospice volunteer three years prior to that.  On a lighter note she leads aerobics at her apartment complex three times a week.  Other volunteering includes:  Special Olympics (20 years), United Way mailings as an RSVP volunteer, special Brunnier Musum/Farm House events, Reiman Gardens, and a decorator of community Festival trees.  At her church she has served on the church council as a treasurer, worked in the Stephen’s Ministry Program, helped create and expand international student programs (FISH) and currently leads senior social gatherings.  She says part of her personal refreshment comes from how varied these volunteer opportunities have been.  

 

Jane was born in New Orleans and, in her late teens, moved to Washington D.C., where she married, had two sons, and was widowed at a young age.  (Her sons still live in the D.C. area.)  Her life path then took her to Saudi Arabia and Washington State before landing in Ames in 1985.  Being a resident of big cities for most of her life, she really didn’t imagine she would remain in Ames but now has lived here over 20 years and has enjoyed being a part of this community very much.

 

Jane, we are grateful for you and your widespread interests and talents.  We so appreciate your willingness to share your enthusiasm for life with young and old alike.  Your servant’s heart inspires us all!