Jackson resident leads ticket sales

Southeast Missourian

Jackson resident Ila Niswonger was recently recognized as the top seller for Holidays on the House this season, a fund raiser for the Southeast Missouri chapter of the American Red Cross in which winners receive a child's playhouse.

Volunteering her time at Westfield Shoppingtown West Park over the past six weekends, Niswonger was the top ticket seller every weekend. In fact, 60 percent of the fund raiser's 2002 ticket sales are attributed to her.

"I have no secret," Niswonger said. "I just ask everyone that walks by if they are interested. I tell them it is for the Red Cross, and they usually just want to help out."

Though she volunteers much of her time to the Red Cross, Niswonger also donates her talents throughout the year to an array of organizations including the MDA, Alzheimer's Association, Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry and Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging. Through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Niswonger has volunteered 7,649 hours over the past 10 years.

"Ila is an amazing person who dedicates herself totally to giving her best," said Mary Burton, American Red Cross executive director.

"The world could definitely benefit from having more people like her."

Niswonger meets lots of new and interesting people through her volunteer work, she said. And it gets her away from the house.

"Without the support of our volunteers we could not accomplish as much as we do," said Amanda Sechrest, American Red Cross development specialist. "Ila's volunteer service to the American Red Cross is truly appreciated. She is a vital asset to the success of Holidays on the House and depicts the true spirit of volunteerism."

When asked about the most enjoyable part of volunteering at Holidays on the House, Niswonger said, "Watching the kids with Santa Claus and selling tickets."

jgosche@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133