Paula Terry is the Chair of our Women United Executive Committee. A long-time Wells Fargo employee, avid Idaho nature lover, grandmother, and reader, we appreciate Paula's service to United Way of Treasure Valley!
1. Tell us about your history with United Way. What motivated you to want to get involved with United Way of Treasure Valley?
For years I have donated through the United Way Campaign at work but I did not know how much United Way did for our community until I joined Women United. At my first Women United event, I heard about children in our community who were missing meals and how Women United worked to fill a pantry accessible to teachers to provide for students in need...my heart broke and I wanted to help.
2. There are so many ways to give back and to be involved with charitable organizations. Why do you choose United Way?
I was invited to a Leaders In Giving mix and mingle through work and there I met Jet Hood who told me about Women United and invited me to the Bodovino Pop-V event. I attended and my eyes were opened to the need in our community and the many ways United Way of Treasure Valley helps those in need in our community. I met such great women who work tirelessly to help children in the Treasure Valley!
3. Community involvement is obviously very important to you. What would you tell someone who wants to make an impact where they live but doesn’t know where to start?
Find what you are passionate about and find a cause that touches your heart and the rest will fall into place.
4. Tell us more about you! What are your hobbies and interests? What are some of your favorite parts about living in Idaho?
My husband Randy and I most enjoy spending time with our four adult children, their spouses, and our six grandchildren. We have twenty chickens and two dogs on our small acreage that keep us busy too! I am a fourth-generation Idaho native and grew up in Emmett, Idaho. I have always loved exploring Idaho, camping, and fly fishing the rivers here. I still love tent camping and just finding a spot next to a river that is nowhere near a campground. I love all of the recreation and entertainment we have available in the Treasure Valley, from the Shakespeare Festival to all of the outdoor concerts in the Summer.
5. Favorite book or books?
I love Pride and Prejudice and Mere Christianity.