MOUNT HEALTHY — It was a sight to behold. The two women were multi-colored — covered in stark white, vivid black and ruby red paint.

        The surrounding yard matched the colorful duo. But they didn't mind. They were on a mission.

Partners in helping, Ruth Griffing (left) and Pat Wendt volunteer for Mount Healthy schools. Here they sort scholarship applications for the high school. (Glenn Hartong photo) | ZOOM |

        Pat Wendt and Ruth Griffing have been on many missions for Mount Healthy schools since that day in the 1980s when they painted huge signs for the upcoming school levy campaign. It was not the only successful campaign they led for the district, but it may have been the most memorable. The women and Mrs. Wendt's yard for days afterward showed the evidence of their effort to paint signs for all eight district schools.

        They do far more than levy campaigns. They've spent a combined total of more than six decades in service to the school district.

        Mrs. Griffing's volunteering began 35 years ago. She joined a group of parents to set up a kindergarten for their children at a local church because the schools had none.

        “I've been at it ever since. I figure sometime I may get it right,” said a laughing Mrs. Griffing, who for years was in charge of school band and drill team uniforms, and helping teachers in the classroom. “I love children. They keep us involved.”

        Mrs. Wendt and Mrs. Griffing are members of the district's Coordinating Council, a group of administrators and citizens who work on district programs and ideas. As part of that group, they run the adult education program — with profits going to the scholarship program, which they help administer.

        “There doesn't seem to be that many people that want to do it,” Mrs. Griffing said. “And Pat and I are just stubborn enough not to give up. We think it will just wither on the vine if we don't do it.”

        Mount Healthy Assistant Superintendent Randy Parsons said the women epitomize volunteerism.

        “Their selfless dedication to the students of our district over a period of decades has just been unmatched in terms of the energy that they put forth, their willingness to do the in-the-trenches kind of work for various projects,” Mr. Parsons said. “They are just cornerstones of our district.”

        About 10 years ago, they helped the Coordinating Council start the Sharing Tree. The project is time-consuming, but dear to their hearts. It provides Christmas toys, clothing and food to needy families. The City of Mount Healthy linked up with the council about seven years ago so more families could be helped. Husbands Stuart Griffing and Dick Wendt help with that project, and Mr. Griffing is now treasurer of Coordinating Council.

        Mr. Wendt and his wife tutor sixth-graders twice weekly, help with field trips, have often chaperoned school dances and other events.

        “Volunteering keeps my mind going,” said Mrs. Wendt, 62. “And I just like being around kids. They give you a different perspective of life, and they do keep you young.”

        Do you know a Hometown Hero? E-mail Janet Wetzel at jjwetzel@siscom.net or fax to 513-755-4150.
       

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