“When someone wants to hug me, I know I’ve made it.” – Sally Franks
Sally Franks is turning 88 years young this year. She is an active member of the Oliver community, volunteering with WOW since 1992, back when it was Soroptimist. Sally gives her time and energy to WOW because she believes in the mission to help women and children. Sally was invited to join as it was an organization made up of business women and Sally had a local business (an optical store). WOW evolved from Soroptimist in 1992 with the aim to keep money in the local community. The membership has expanded to include all women who want to make a difference in their community.
Sally has served WOW in many capacities, including Secretary, Treasurer, Director, and President. The annual trade show holds a special place in her heart as she’s been the convenor for 25 years, long before computers. She remembers handwriting invitations and licking envelopes.
Local Oliverites may know Sally from her involvement with the Art Council, Music in the Park, the Showcase of Talent, and the Spirit of Oliver Awards. Sally is from a family of artists and has been active with the Art Council and the Art Club for +20 years. Her hobbies include painting, sewing and designing, crosswords, reading, watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and spoiling her beloved dog, Bear.
When asked what keeps her motivated to give back her time and energy, Sally says, “I do it because I enjoy what I do and I love helping people. My whole family has been a real part of this community. My family moved here in 1926; my grandparents had 7 children. Every one of them has been involved in the community in some way.”
Sally encourages more involvement from young people. “You don’t know until you try,” she says, about taking on tasks in a committee, such as stepping up to be Secretary or Treasurer. At one point she also didn’t know what to do in these roles, and she gained confidence with each new role she stepped into. “I’ve made so many beautiful friends – best friends (through volunteering). I am so gratified by everything.”