Andrea “Andie” Wolfinsohn enjoys working with many individuals in her community and also likes to actively promote a “get up and go” attitude. As a member of Michiana Resources and mother of a Special Olympics competitor, Wolfinsohn readily assists with the Special Olympics along with the Creative Concepts and Theater Arts program. She is happy to work one on one with clients, contribute to building friendships in team situations, and further support self love.
One of Wolfinsohn’s goals is to spread awareness of Michiana Resources to La Porte County. Some schools are now being asked to use this valuable system once their students graduate; a job coach is provided at Michiana Resources and work sometimes is brought in for clients to complete.
“I feel great about being a part of Michiana Resources and volunteering my time to endorse the creative concepts of special needs adults. As a proud parent and representative of Michiana Resources, I am so blessed to be able to boost confidence levels and also improve social relationships. Every day is an adventure and I can’t wait to begin,” Wolfinsohn said.
Wolfinsohn benefits fully from her clients and grows right beside them; she is always amazed at everyone’s creative nature. During Michiana Resources’ Creative Concepts and Theater Arts classes, taught by Bridget Weaver, students work on their theatrical, glasswork, painting, and sculpture skills among their many other abilities. For the Special Olympics, Wolfinsohn coaches track and field along with bowling.
“My daughter, Stacy, first joined the Special Olympics for track and field. Today, she still joins in on all the fun, but with bowling instead. You can say that she has swayed my decisions for coaching. Everything just flowed together so nicely with volunteering. It’s a lot of fun for everyone,” Wolfinsohn said.
Good sportsmanship is always practiced along with respecting one’s self. Everyone tries to improve as much as they can and learn from their experiences—including those teaching. As long as everyone is trying hard and congratulating others along the way, they are doing their absolute best.
“As individuals, we improve our social skills from year to year and share that understanding with each other. We mature and help others master their own dreams or fears—whatever they may be,” Wolfinsohn said.
As a prior foster parent for dogs and former New Prairie elementary judge for science and history projects, the community has never witnessed Wolfinsohn lax in her dedication to take part in some of the good organizations and causes La Porte County provides. Earlier this year, Michigan City presented Wolfinsohn with the “Unsung Hero” award which was a wonderful surprise to her. The nomination came from her friend, Nora Akins, the La Porte County Special Olympics coordinator, Carol Schultz, and Michiana Resources Chief Operating Officer, Sandy Alexander.
When she is not taking part in community work, Wolfinsohn appreciates her family. Her husband, Steve, special needs daughter, Stacy, and two dogs live in Michigan City. Her other daughter, Wendy, who is a college graduate, Navy veteran, wife and mother, has a family of her own as well which Wolfinsohn also adores.
“There are so many wonderful people who have come into my life and I couldn’t be happier,” Wolfinsohn said. "My husband, Steve, and I have been married forty years since April 1st and I couldn’t have done any of this without his support. I would also like to thank Michiana Resources for letting me continue volunteering, Darline Melendez who co-coaches bowling with me and Carol Schultz who plays a large part in the Board of Directors. Cheryl Adney and I have worked side by side in many cases: we are both members of the Parent Advisory Group, coaches for bowling and also help in the kitchen when the Trivia Fest rolls around. My thankfulness to these individuals and to many others doesn’t have a limit.”
Andrea “Andie” Wolfinsohn is truly an astonishing individual who always puts the needs of others before her own. She always has a smile on her face and an aura of energy that is contagious to those she encounters. I, for one, am very privileged to have met her and I hope to see her again soon!