Posted on Oct 31, 2016 in
HOMETOWN HEROES
Elsie Schade.
By Joan Frances –
Walking into a PennyWise store to search out the great prices on clothing, housewares and furniture is an exciting experience for bargain hunters, who never know what treasures they will find. Not only is the money well spent, but funds go to the Fort Bend Women’s Center, a non-profit organization that assists survivors of domestic or sexual violence and their children to achieve safety, heal and begin a new independent and self-sufficient life. Residents of Fort Bend County generously donate their time to support this vital establishment. One faithful worker who gives her time to this need is Elsie Schade.
A Sugar Land resident for 15 years, Schade is originally from New Jersey, where she was an administrative assistant in Bernards Township. After retiring, she moved to Fort Bend County to be close to her son. Her daughter lives in New Jersey along with Schade’s two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. About six years ago, Schade was looking for a place where she could volunteer. “I called a few local newspapers for a non-profit organization that was looking for volunteers,” Schade explained. “They connected me with the Women’s Center. I was moved by their purpose to help men, women and children who are affected by domestic violence.
I believe this is something that can impact anyone, any age, culture, nationality or income. I wanted to be a part of helping these people, and they chose me.”
Family members Amelia and Danielle Strittmatter with Karin and Elsie Schade.
Schade started working in the administration office making copies and assisting in various office projects. The managers discovered her experience in bookkeeping and put her to work. “They soon noticed that I have a talent for keeping accurate books. Once a week, I go through all of the daily reports from the three PennyWise retail stores and balance all of the charge receipts from the past week. When there are problems, we all work together to find the solution. I really enjoy working with the other people in the office. We are all there for a purpose: to keep things moving smoothly and to support the organization and what it stands for. I may not see any of the people we help, but I know they are taken care of because of what we do.”
In addition to her valuable bookkeeping skills, Schade enjoys volunteering for fundraiser events. Every April, Classic Chevrolet presents the Classic Boogie Prom Night fundraiser at the Stafford Center. Bell bottoms, big hair and polyester suits complete the evening of fun. Schade greets patrons at the table when they enter and records the list of participants. She also attends Girlfriends Giggle, a pajama party for women hosted by STARS volunteer auxiliary.
“This will be the 12th year for the fundraiser on February 9, 2017, and it is so much fun to watch,” Schade said. “I greet and register the women and enjoy the feeling of compassion these people have for the Women’s Center. It makes me so proud to be a part of this organization. It means so much to be a volunteer. I am a member of a group of generous, giving people who want to improve the quality of life for everyone.” Thanks to volunteers like Schade, the world is becoming a much better place to live.
For information on upcoming fundraising events benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center and to volunteer, call 281-344-5750 or email mail@fortbendwomenscenter.org.
