Volunteer Highlight — Mindy Anderson
Meet Mindy Anderson
BIO Girls Volunteer in Perham, MN
As a healthcare professional in Perham, Mindy witnesses firsthand the importance of fostering self-confidence, self-worth, and self-esteem in children. She believes that young people today face the stresses of the world much earlier than previous generations, making programs like BIO Girls essential.
“This program is one part of a healthy village to protect and armor our children with positivity.”
After five years with BIO Girls, many impactful mantras have stayed with Mindy, but one, in particular, has become a guiding principle in her life.
“‘Progress over Perfection’ reminds me that we are continuously growing and learning. Even if we aren’t ‘perfect’ at something, we are enough and worthy right where we are—making progress.”
Not every child enjoys running or physical activity, and Mindy recalls one season when a participant was especially resistant to the weekly run/walks. Progress came in small steps, but overall, it remained a challenge.
However, Perham’s end-of-season Fun Run is a celebration filled with cheering stations, music, and a fire truck at the finish line. Mindy and the participant took on the challenge together, but as expected, the run was difficult. Then, something remarkable happened.
“Toward the end of the race, some of the BIO Girls who had already finished came back to encourage her. They ran with her to the finish line, and the smile on her face was contagious. There were tears flowing from so many people watching. It is important to continue to meet the children exactly where they are, and I hope this child remembers she is loved and enough.”
Mindy’s husband, Pete, has been a strong supporter of her volunteer work, even before their own children were old enough to participate.
“He has been an awesome ‘BIO Dad.’”
Now, their daughters, Olivia and Audrey, are involved in the program, entering their third and second years. Meanwhile, their son, Graham, wishes he could take part as well.
“He has told me on several occasions, ‘I wish there was BIO Boys for me!’ We will keep teaching him the mantras at home!”
Mindy’s dedication to BIO Girls continues to make an impact, not only in the lives of the participants but also within her own family. We are deeply grateful for you! Your dedication to building confidence, self-worth, and resilience in young girls is truly inspiring.
thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Ready to get involved?
Register for our next Virtual Lunch and Learn!
Join us to learn more from our BIO Girls team. We will cover information on the BIO Girls mission, our proven program, as well as our volunteer roles: Site Director and Mentor.
See you there!
How can I support?
We get the volunteer role isn’t for everyone!
For just $12 a month you can support one BIO Girl’s 12-week journey through our program.
Together, we can ensure all girls have access to BIO Girls regardless of socioeconomic status.
