By Brooke Curtiss
Samantha “Sam” Perdue, a life-long resident of Fruitland, has spent an enormous amount of time helping in the community for nothing more then her own enjoyment. This stay-at-home mother of two young girls, states that she wants to set a good example for her children and others. Her girls, just 3 and 8 years old, often tag along with Sam on her adventures in volunteering. In addition to being a mom and over-the-top volunteer, Sam also works part time giving care to adults and children with developmental disabilities.
In 2022, Sam spent most of her volunteering being a member of every committee the Fruitland Chamber of Commerce has to offer. Sam states she believes she was on 5 committees all having to do with making the Fruitland Community a better place. She also volunteered for her daughter’s school, Treasure Valley Classical Academy, in areas that needed an extra hand like school grounds clean up and school events. Other activities she gets involved in are various events and needs throughout the community like the Spring Parade, Fruitland Family Fun Days, and needs that are presented through the Facebook groups she is a part of. Sam also happens to be the volunteer coordinator for the Fruitland Family Fun Days, so she is always looking for others who want to give their time to improve the community.
Sam states “when I was tagged on Facebook saying I was being nominated, I felt really honored.” She felt like this nomination was a huge compliment and never expected it from another mom at her daughter’s school and a chamber member. She was shocked that her efforts to volunteer were so noticed by others. Sam says she volunteers because it is fun for her and makes her feel good to help others, so she never expected to have such an impact on others. The award itself surprised her because she did not know it existed or that the chamber had this recognition of members of the community.
When she made her speech in acceptance of her award, Sam said that “the fact it (my volunteering) made an impact and people notice is awesome.” She hopes that her time volunteering shows others that giving just a couple hours a month to help others makes a difference and helps the community be stronger and more successful.
