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Serving for 20 years, Michelle is Samaritans Southcoast's longest-serving Volunteer.

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Michelle is a retired Administrative Assistant and a case manager for individuals with disabilities. She was also a licensed daycare provider when her children were young.

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For forty-three years, Michelle has been married to her wonderful husband, and together they have two adult daughters whom she is very proud of. She also has what she refers to as her third child, Muffin, an adorable cock-a-poo. Michelle enjoys spending time with her family and friends. 

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It's appropriate that Michelle was born on Earth Day as she loves nature and loves to take walks outside to be part of the nature around her. She considers herself a generally happy person with a positive outlook who likes to learn and grow continually but most of all, she enjoys helping people.

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Michelle loves to read, and her favorite movie is To Sir With Love with Sidney Poitier, whom she admits to having a crush on as a teenager. She enjoys Country and Irish music, and her favorite artists are Celine Dion, Pavarotti, Bocelli, John Meyer, and Carol King.

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Her favorite color is blue, and if she could be anywhere, she would choose to be on the beach in Kauai, Hawaii. 

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When asked what moves her to volunteer on a suicide hotline, Michelle said, "When I was 17 years old, my mother completed suicide. I know she felt extremely alone with her depression (mental illness was little understood at the time), and she didn't know where to turn for support. Because of that, I often wonder if she had had The Samaritans to call, would she have thought twice about what she was about to do."

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She urges people who are distressed to call the hotline. "I'm so glad I'm there to answer the phone. I know most callers feel better after they have had a chance to share their stories. I've become a much better listener and even more non-judgmental and understanding of people from all walks of life."

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Closing words from Michelle, "If you care about people, are a good listener and can be non-judgmental and empathetic, The Samaritans is a wonderful mission. It provides a valuable service to the community, and you'll enjoy being part of it! "