Maggie never fails to light up a room
By Don Checots, Minneapolis VA Volunteer, Air Force Veteran
“It all started with art”, says our Volunteer of the Month, Maggie DeRee. That’s how she started what is now a 25-year relationship with our VA, clocking in nearly 28,000 volunteer hours.
DeRee is also a Veteran. She went to Basic Training at a time when women were still referred to as “WACs,” the Women’s Army Corps. She served 20 years in the Army Reserves as a chef. During that time, she was deployed to Korea (where she learned a lot about kimchi) and Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm.
Her love of art led her entering into the Veterans Creative Art Awards a few times. It was through that experience, and the people she met, that caused her to become a volunteer and give back to the Veteran community.
DeRee’s commitment and tireless efforts have touched the lives of countless individuals. Primarily assisting the Recreation/Creative Arts department with events and projects, she has contributed significantly to the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) office. Since it’s inception she has volunteered at the Monthly Pop-up Veteran Food Pantry, distributing fresh produce to those in need. She also played a vital role in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, both 20 years ago and again this past summer when the Games were held in Minneapolis.
DeRee is a pillar of resilience, displaying her unwavering grit and commitment daily. Her radiant energy and enthusiasm infuse the entire office with positivity, lifting spirits and fostering a joyful atmosphere. Even in the face of adversity, she never fails to light up the room with her humor and infectious spirit.
She currently volunteers three days a week and goes the extra mile by adjusting her schedule to accommodate the needs of the CDCE office.
Unfazed by inclement weather or any obstacles thrown her way, DeRee consistently demonstrates her devotion to serving Veterans. She is a perfect example of selflessness and dedication, enriching the lives of others through her unwavering commitment to the VA's mission. She truly is an extraordinary individual, and we are honored to have her as part of our team.