Audra Terry is on the right.

Audra Terry
Quota International of Orillia, ONT

Audra Terry embodies the true spirit of volunteerism, because she gives so selflessly to many volunteer activities. Although she is the mother of two young sons, and she owns and operates her own business with several employees, she still finds time to be involved in so many volunteer ventures.
As a member of QI of Orillia, Audra sits on committees, attends meetings, and has served as a chairperson, which means she then has to organize a committee of her own. She is a tireless worker and truly personifies the spirit of giving of oneself.

Audra has had many positive effects as the result of being a volunteer. She has enriched the lives of the children that she gives time to in the school system, as well as the seniors that she has encountered in her volunteer activities. Because of her personality, she easily puts a smile on anyone's face that she encounters and gives everyone a positive feeling about themselves and their day. Having been a Big Sister for 15 years means that she undoubtedly has helped shape and guide young girls, who otherwise might not have had such a caring and dedicated mentor.

Here is more about Audra, in her own words:

"Hello, my name is Audra Terry. I am 37 years old and I love to help people. I am not only a wife and a business owner, but also the proud mother of two young boys. When I was 19 years old, I got the volunteer itch. I wanted to join Big Sisters; howeve,r at that time you had to be 21 years of age. So, when I turned 21, I joined! I have been with Big Sisters for about 15 years. My first little sister is now a proud mom of a little girl and my second little sister is now turning 15 years old. Through Big Sisters, I started to volunteer at a local nursing home. I visit a lady who doesn't have any family, and we have been friends now for three years.

When I was 27 years old, I joined QI of Orillia and have been a member for 10 years. I think I am the youngest in our club!
As my children grew and started school, I realized how important the breakfast club is to young children. So I became involved in that. Through my business, I offer high school students the opportunity to co-op in my salon. Students learn not only hairstyling skills but also personal business skills on how to talk to people.

For the past four years, I have helped to raise money and walk 10km in the MS Walkathon. I also participate in a hair cut-a-thon for Parkinson's disease. This event is a national event that includes hairdressers across Canada. This is my twelfth year for the Parkinson cut-athon. They say that a true volunteer will volunteer for more than one thing. I think this is true. It makes me feel good when you can help people and make them smile."

To return to the 2005 Volunteers of the Year main page, click here.