Murphree recognized as top volunteer
Bonner County Daily Bee | UPDATED 2 days, 1 hour AGO
Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Joan Urbaniak, left, presents the chamber's Volunteer of the Month Award for April to Michele Murphree.
Photo courtesy GREATER SANDPOINT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has recognized Michele Murphree as its April Volunteer of the Month, honoring her outstanding commitment to service, leadership, and community impact throughout Bonner County.
Murphree is a dedicated and steady presence in the community, quietly making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, chamber officials said in announcing her selection.
After moving to Sandpoint, Murphree quickly became involved in efforts to support local families, beginning with the creation of school and community gardens.
"What started with a single garden at Northside Elementary has grown into a lasting impact — she is now helping develop her sixteenth garden in our community," Joan Urbaniak, chamber executive director, said.
Chamber officials said Murphree's commitment to serving others extends well beyond the garden. As a board member of Food For Our Children, she helps address food insecurity for local youth. She also recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of her woodcutting project with the VFW, ensuring veterans and community members have access to firewood during the colder months.
When the school district was unable to offer summer meals, Murphree stepped in. Alongside Katie Cox and Debbie Love, she helped provide 7,425 meals to children in the community. Last year, that program expanded to include fresh produce, further strengthening its impact.
That dedication to the community also led to her selection as the community's top volunteer for April.
Through Cedar Hills Church and Serve Sandpoint, chamber officials said Murphree continues to bring people together in service. In 2024, she developed 18 service projects for nearly 400 volunteers and is already hard at work organizing this year’s efforts.
One of her very favorite projects is walking Better Together Animal Alliance dogs in Pine Street Woods, as part of Hounds on the Town. She sends out photos of their walks and has been able to get quite a few dogs adopted.
"Michele leads with consistency, care and a deep commitment to her community," Urbaniak said. "We are grateful for the many ways she shows up and makes Sandpoint stronger."