Pam Schmidt is a board member of the Bonduel Civic Association, which is organizing the village’s annual Fourth of July celebration.
Schmidt was born in Cecil and graduated from Bonduel High School. She worked at Carver Boat and Citizens Bank before her current job as deputy county clerk for Shawano County, which she has held for 24 years.
Schmidt and her husband, Ron, a bank examiner, have been married 21 years. They live in Bonduel and have two daughters. They enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching high school sports and Bonduel Broncos baseball games.
Schmidt is a past member of the East Shawano County Thrivent Chapter Board, St. Paul Lutheran School Booster Club Board and St. Paul Youth Board. She also volunteers for church-related committees and the Broncos baseball club.
Q How long have you been a member of the Bonduel Civic Association?
A “On and off for about 15 years. I got back on three years ago. I am a board member. We have nine on the board. We have at-large members and members from organizations.”
Q How do you help?
A “Back in 2000, I realized other communities had bike giveaways and Bonduel didn’t. I suggested it and started the bike giveaway. That draws a lot of people.”
Q How does it work?
A “The kids register after the parade at the Village Park. Names are drawn out of a basket, and the kids get to pick out a bike. Allison Schultz coordinates the giveaway. She takes pictures of the kids with their bikes and gives the picture to the business or individual that donated the bike. Individuals donate when they see how the kids react. There are a lot of kids around. Kids 15 and under can come to the park to register. They must be present to win.”
Q How else do you help?
A “Last year, I brought up having sponsors for the fireworks. I came up with the idea after noticing other areas had something similar to help raise funds. I sent a letter to businesses and have three levels to donate: red ($500), white ($350) and blue ($200). Their level of sponsorship determines the amount of free advertising they receive. I was happy with the results. Hope fully it will continue to grow each year. On the Fourth, I work in the food stand all day. We’re always looking for more volunteers.”
Q What is the money used for?
A “We give a lot of it back to various organizations or to those who ask for help during the year; like the fire department if they are raising money for a piece of equipment. We give two scholarships each year. It all goes back to the community.”
Q Why do you volunteer?
A “I enjoy it and helping out. Last year I went door to door to get help to work in the food stand. I help to try to make things better for people to enjoy. I like seeing all the people there and enjoying themselves.”
