Everyday Heroes

MT. PLEASANT - For Alan and Melinda Huisinga being active in the community is all about finding ways to give back to people in need.

The couple, who moved back to Mt. Pleasant 10 years ago for retirement, are involved with Rotary, Kiwanis, PEO, Tri-T and Old Threshers, among other local organizations.

Most recently, the couple used the Old Threshers Festival of Lights as an opportunity to host a food drive for the Fellowship Cup. Through the drive, the couple were able to collect more than 1,100 canned goods.

'It's this sense of accomplishment, getting to give back to the community and make a difference in the lives of people here,” Alan said.

Melinda, who grew up in Mt. Pleasant, said her family was always involved in the community, something the couple carried on and passed on to their children as well.

'I just grew up believing that's what I should do,” she said

Melinda added the giving and charitable spirit of Mt. Pleasant has often been an inspiration for the couple to find new ways to continue to make an impact.

'It's second to none other here. When you call somebody for help, people show up,” she said.

With the pandemic, the pair have been especially moved to find ways to help.

'This whole thing, it's disrupted people's lives, and we just want to make sure people are taken care of,” he said.

The couple added they often seek out activities and groups whose goals are to uplift the community.

'We join those clubs because they help others. PEO supports the education of women, Tri-T sends fourth-grade girls to camp,” Melinda said.

Currently, the pair are fundraising for the Old Threshers Santa House, which is tentatively set to begin construction next year.

'It's just being able to give children the joy and the opportunity to speak to Santa,” Alan said.

- Ashley Duong