Spotlight on Volunteers – Jim Wixom

Jim Wixom Volunteers His Time for Cottonwood Youth 

City of Cottonwood Parks and Recreation Director Richard Faust says, “Jim Wixom has been a member of the Parks & Recreation Commission for the past 11 years. He was one of the key people in directing both the Commission body and staff to take a more visionary look at constructing a new multi-generational center in Cottonwood. Through his efforts and several others in the late 1990s, a more focused effort was taken by the Commission body in stepping up positive public opinion for a Community Recreation Center in Cottonwood. Jim was also on the Commission during intense discussions for the application process for Heritage Funds and the construction of Cottonwood’s new Little League Ball Park Complex. Jim is an effective community leader who takes pride in serving the citizens of Cottonwood with passion and energy. Jim is one of the longest standing members of the Parks and Recreation Commission as well as many other community boards and committees. He unselfishly gives of his talent and time, because his passion is dedicated to the youth of Cottonwood and the Verde Valley.”  

 

Jim was recognized by the Cottonwood City Council on Oct. 16 with the third quarter employee safety award. Public Works Supervisor Claude Lankford nominated Jim for the award, stating, “Jim is a good safety representative for the department.”

 

How long have you lived in Cottonwood? Where did you grow up? I have lived in Cottonwood 26 years. My early years I lived in the Casa Grande area. My family relocated to California in 1965, and then I returned to Arizona.  

 

Is there anything about your family that you wish to share with the community? My wife, Alicia and I have three children, two girls and one boy, and our granddaughter will be two in January (her birthday is the same day as her grandpa!). Our son, John, is serving in the Army and recently returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.

 

Career: I have been employed with the City of Cottonwood Public Works Department for 10 years.

 

Is there an event from your childhood or young adulthood that propelled your desire to volunteer to serve your community? As a youngster growing up on a farm, we were removed from general city activities. I remember watching the Jerry Lewis telethon on TV and I was impressed by his dedication to help others. He was my inspiration.  

 

What are your views about volunteerism? By volunteering for different activities I feel that I am giving back a small part of what the community has given to me and my family.

  

How do you serve the community through your appointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission, Stewards of Public Lands, and other volunteerism? By working with the Parks and Recreation Commission, Stewards of Public Lands, and others, I am hoping to make a better community for everyone to enjoy.

 

Where do you see the community of Cottonwood in 10 years? Or, what is your wish for Cottonwood in 10 years?  In the next 10 years, I look forward to seeing the community of Cottonwood enjoying the new Rec Center. My wish for Cottonwood in 10 years is to continue to see a clean, wholesome environment for families to live.

 

Do you have a favorite saying or quote? A favorite quote of mine is “Treat others as you would like to be treated!”

 

What is the most interesting or exciting thing that's ever happened in Cottonwood since you’ve lived here? One of the most exciting things that happened since I have lived in Cottonwood was when the Mingus Marauders won the state football championship. I am a big supporter of Mingus High School sporting events. 

 

What are your hobbies and enjoyment besides volunteerism and serving your community? When I have any free time, I enjoy hunting, fishing, horseback riding, backpacking and just visiting with my friends.

 

If you could get every single community member to do just one thing, what would that be? If each person could be more aware of littering and the impact it has, and try to recycle when possible, we would have a much nicer environment.    

 

Please share anything important to you that these questions may have missed. I have recently joined a new volunteer program that the Fire Department is sponsoring. The Fire Corp is a national program, and is organized to try to get the public safety message out to everyone.

 ______Spotlight Pubished Oct. 26, 2007________________________________________________________________________

Cottonwood City Council members recognize the invaluable contributions volunteers make to the betterment of city government and the community. Spotlight on Volunteers is written by Mayor Diane Joens. There are many opportunities to volunteer and make a positive difference. Council members encourage everyone to get involved. Volunteer today!