Bambi Goodman began life in Oak-land, Calif., where she met Matt, who was destined to become her husband. Fate dictated that in search of employment and education they each ended up in Missoula.

In 1985, after marriage, college and court reporter status for her, they moved to Whitefish, where she has her office, and "they live in a house in the woods."

Active by nature, Bambi has enjoyed the outdoors — skiing, golfing, cross country skiing, canoeing and fishing — but most of all she likes to work in her garden and hike in places like Glacier Park and the Danny On Trail.

Her volunteer work encompasses a large area, including secretary of the Montana Court Reporters Association, member of the Whitefish County Water District, secretary of the Whitefish Area Fire Safety Council, and participation in the Winter Carnival.

She speaks with pride of the Spay and Neuter Task Force, an all volunteer group, which last year treated some 3,800 animals. A 10-year member, she "does anything that needs to be done except participate in surgery."

Her culinary abilities led toward the kitchen, where she helps to provide three meals to the many volunteers who, on a weekly basis, arrive early in the morning and leave late at night.

Another favorite project is the Whitefish Rotary Christmas gift program. A non-Rotarian, she coordinates the buying and distribution of gifts. She says it's fun to shop with someone else's money.

Bambi says she volunteers because "it's what a community is all about" and "it's extremely rewarding to give of my time and energy — I like the fact that I am able to help my community." Co-workers praise her as a person who prefers to work in the background with an attitude of "let's get this job done."

Bambi your 'sense of community" and your contributions toward our youth, our pets and our general safety and welfare are invaluable, and we thank you.

— Jake Heckathorn

This column is dedicated to those who give freely of their time and energy to worthwhile community projects, but whose efforts often go unnoticed. If you know such a person, please e-mail [email protected].