She loves triathlons, her dogs (Sparkle and Ralphie) and staying busy. She is also the morning show radio host on WGVU. You may have also seen her out and about with the roving microphone. However you are aware of her, Shelley Irwin is a powerhouse not only in her professional career, but also in her community involvement. She is one tough act to follow.
“My mom was a do-er,” smiles Irwin, as she boasts about her 74-year-old mother. “She and my dad are still very healthy.” It must be where Shelley gets some of that seemingly never-ending energy and positivity.
Her mom was a nurse and took care of her and her brother, but also set an example by volunteering. Irwin clearly took this to heart as she is currently involved with the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore, Grand Rapids Area of Chamber of Commerce, Kent District Library, Michigan Women’s Foundation, St. Cecilia Music Center, University Club of Grand Rapid and the Women and Girls Lead initiative.
Sparkle, her beloved dog, was the inspiration in becoming involved with the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan. Now 17 years old, Sparkle is no longer able to see and was diagnosed with a seizure disorder. He’s still loving and lovable and enjoys a fig newton now and then, but he is the reason she continues to support the mission of the organization through volunteering and serving on the Board of Directors.
“You need to find your passion,” explains Irwin, “and balance your time.”
Hence, Irwin also serves on the Board of Directors at the Girls Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore. She was a Girl Scout in her adolescence, and continues to bring her brownie pin to each and every Board meeting she attends. She keeps it in her pocket as a reminder.
“Some of the joys I find are in the people I work with,” Irwin says. “It’s half the fun.” And Irwin is certainly having fun making a difference in our community with all of the meeting she attends.
“Attendance is important,” explains Irwin. “You have to be present and leave with action items.” This do-gooder really is a do-er just like her mom. Want to help Irwin put the good back in do-gooder? Support her efforts and the organizations in her favor:
• Girls Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore on
facebook and
web• Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce on
facebook and
webSource: Shelley Irwin
Writer: Jennifer Wilson, Do Good Editor
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