Congratulations to our Rural program Volunteer of the Quarter – 4^th quarter – Nancy Skager! Nancy has been so willing to deliver meals when a volunteer has called out and we need someone to fill in. We thank her for her commitment to Meals on Wheels Salinas Valley and our senior clients.

Nancy began volunteering with Meals on Wheels Salinas Valley in March of 2019 and enjoys being a substitute driver. As a substitute driver for a variety of routes, Nancy says, “I’ve been all over! Met so many people! It’s always a good morning!” Her love of people and background as a visiting nurse with the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) makes volunteering for MOWSV a great fit.

After retiring 15 years ago as an RN, Nancy wanted to find volunteer opportunities that suited her interests. Throughout her career, she worked in a hospital, a Doctor’s office, public health, VNA and school nursing. She spent 28 years working as a school nurse in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Because Nancy had been so invested in a career that kept her busy for so many years, she could not see herself staying at home after retirement. “I wanted to be involved in community,” she stated. Nancy continued with VNA for a few years while starting her volunteer search.

While working in public health, Nancy shared that she was instrumental in the “Buckle Up” signs that can be seen all over Monterey County! She spoke to police and sheriffs to urge adoption of seat belts in all vehicles. Because of her work and law changes, “now you get a ticket if you’re caught not wearing one,” Nancy said.

When asked how long she has lived in her community, Nancy enthusiastically said, “I have been in Salinas 50 years!” She was born in Niagara Falls, NY, moved 7 times in high school (!!) and ended up at the University of Nevada School of Nursing. After receiving her nursing degree, Nancy moved to San Francisco to work at UCSF. After working at UCSF, she continued her nurse education earning a Master’s degree from San Jose State University.

Not only does Nancy share her time with MOWSV but she has been volunteering at the Monterey Bay Aquarium for 16 years. She feels that the best part of being an aquarium volunteer is meeting people from all over the world. “I do love people!” said Nancy. Another passion of hers is being involved with a few more agencies including Girl’s Inc. of the Central Coast and the CSA 15 County committee. All of this volunteering keeps Nancy with an overflowing calendar though she does take time for herself. “When I am not volunteering, I am swimming and walking daily,” shared Nancy.

We are grateful that Nancy has chosen MOWSV for the past 6 years to share her time and talent by volunteering to serve our homebound clients! Congratulations Nancy on being honored as a Volunteer of the Quarter.