Founder of the Ark Preschool, Melissa Daley, was recognized recently as March’s ‘Woodlander of the Month’ for her many years of community service.

 

Mrs. Daley, a local public school teacher for 20 years, founded the Ark Preschool for families in need at the Woodland United Methodist Church over two years ago. Daley takes no compensation for her work as the preschool’s fulltime volunteer teacher and director. The Methodist Church family and local agencies such as Yolo Family Resource Center and the Wayfarer Center work to sustain the tuition-free school.

 “We all work together,” said Daley, “helping to ensure that the children are ready to thrive in kindergarten. 

 

“I’m passionate about the preschool; it brings me a great deal of happiness to be learning along with the children and staff.”

 

Children’s programs have a central place for this mother of two. In addition to starting the Ark Preschool, Daley helped launch the Toy Lending Library, a volunteer-run toy lending program at the Woodland Library. She has also served on P.T.A. and School Site Councils at Plainfield and Prairie Elementary Schools for many years.

 

When Mrs. Daley is not working as preschool director, lay leader, and Sunday school teacher at the Methodist Church, she can often be found serving meals and encouragement at the Yolo Wayfarer Center.

 

Friend and fellow volunteer Michael Ashen said of Daley’s volunteerism, “I have been friends with Melissa and her husband, Monty, since 1986. From the beginning of our friendship, Melissa has inspired me by her commitment to helping needy children. She possesses the true meaning of giving back to your community. Knowing Melissa has made me a better person and has taught me to inspire others to give back to their communities.”

 

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes outstanding community service and is sponsored by Mayor David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.