Nancy True, of Dowagiac, works as an administrative assistant at Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital and serves as president of the Dowagiac Band Boosters, a group of parents who support the district’s band students.

 

Have long have been president of the boosters?

I am just starting my second year.

 

How long have been with boosters in general?

This will be my fourth year.

 

How did you get involved with the organization?

As an eighth grader, my son (Nathan) was in the high school marching band, so that is what got me started with the boosters.

 

What are some of things the boosters does to support the band?

We help fundraise. We run the concession stand at the football field, to help raise money for equipment that is needed for the band. We have a spaghetti dinner in February that also helps raise funds for the band. We make sure they are ready to go before every competition and festival. We go with them to the competitions and festivals, to make sure that everything is good to go. We help them get packed away as well.

We just do a lot of support, for the kids and the band program.

 

How many members are in the boosters at the moment?

Every parent who has a child in the band program is considered a booster. We also have seven people are part of the band booster board.

 

How did you become president?

The previous president, Robin Wilson, talked with me and asked me if I would be interested [in the position]. My first year I was vice president and she guided me until I was elected president.

 

Why do feel the boosters is an important program to support?

I think it is a great thing. The kids need support. I love supporting the kids and I love helping the band out. We also help Mr. [Justin] Makarewicz, who is the band director, when he needs things done.

 

Is there anything you volunteer with around the community?

My husband [Rob] is the middle school soccer coach, so I also help with the soccer kids too.

 

Is there anything you would say to encourage parents with kids in the band program to help out?

I think they should take the opportunity and at least volunteer for one event. It is a great group of kids and it is a great experience to volunteer and help do something, even if it is only for a couple hours. It is a great thing to help people.

 

People interested in volunteering for the boosters are encouraged to email True at nancy.true@borgess.com or contact Makarewicz at (269) 782-4423.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her by calling Ted Yoakum, community editor, at (269) 588-1040, or by email at ted.yoakum@leaderpub.com.