Spotlight on Volunteers - Thelma Fisher

 Member of the Cottonwood Library Board 

Dynamic Cottonwood resident Thelma Fisher is a whirlwind of activity as she goes about her day-to-day activities. A dedicated member of the Cottonwood Library Board the past 15 years, Fisher says, "Knowledge is power and that's gained by reading."

Fisher is also a 40-year member of Friends of the Library. She encourages reading for pleasure and entertainment. She says the library has books and computers that open knowledge to everyone. It provides a quiet area where people can do thoughtful thinking and enjoy the pastime of reading and writing.

"The library board and Director John O'Neill encourage library usage for all age groups," Fisher says. She believes it is essential for the community to keep reading in the forefront. "If you can't read, you can't do anything paramount to a livelihood," she emphasizes.

Fisher was an executive secretary in Phoenix when she met and married Cottonwood-Oak Creek Schoolteacher Terry Fisher, moving to Cottonwood in 1961. Their son Mark was born in the old hospital in 1962. Fisher says, "Mark was the first child baptized at St. Francis Cabrini in Camp Verde." The Fishers have two grandsons, Scott and Ryan. 

Born in Detroit, Fisher's family moved to Phoenix when she was 10. She attended Phoenix College for two years. After a secretarial career, marriage, and motherhood, she attended Northern Arizona University and got her master's degree in education. She taught elementary school for both the Sedona and Flagstaff school districts for 28 years. She also taught at Prescott College and Yavapai College.

Nine years ago Fisher realized a life-long dream of becoming a Registered Nurse, receiving her degree from Yavapai College. Citing this as her fourth career, she teaches nursing classes for Yavapai College and works part-time at the Verde Valley Medical Center.

For 32 years Fisher has been an active member of Alpha Delta Kappa, an international philanthropic sorority of women educators who raise money for scholarships.

In 10 years, Fisher predicts rapid growth for the Verde Valley because it is a beautiful area of the United States. She thinks the community should court businesses that offer competitive salaries and industries that ensure clean water and air. She believes people live in the area for the good quality of life.

"People should give back to their community by volunteering. The city could offer workshops to educate people about volunteering and the gratification we get from that activity. It makes the city a nice place to live, knowing people are willing to help out," she says.

Because they both taught school and had summers off, the Fishers have traveled extensively, visiting more than 35 foreign countries. She also served on the Parks and Recreation Commission for eight years and coordinated a swimming program for 15 years. With husband Terry and other community members, Fisher was involved in creating the Verde Valley Ambulance and a search and rescue operation. The Fishers both set a great example for positive community leadership and volunteerism.

The Cottonwood Library is located at 100 South Sixth Street and may be reached by calling 634-7559. The Library's Web site is http://www.prescottlib.lib.az.us/cottonwood.htm. Director O'Neill's e-mail address is joneill@ci.cottonwood.az.us.

Spotlight on Volunteers  recognizes the invaluable contributions volunteers make to the betterment of city government and the community. There are many opportunities to volunteer and make a positive difference. Volunteer today!