Andrews honored as top chamber volunteer

SANDPOINT — Marty Andrews has been honored as January's top volunteer by the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce. 

Andrews was nominated by Emily Strizich, executive director of the Pend Oreille Pedalers. 

“Marty has always had that can-do spirit and believes strongly in the students he works with. Marty spent his one day off to share the joy of biking at the Carousel of Smiles Fun Fair that took place in November," Strizich said.

Not only did Andrews come to the event early to bring features for the obstacle course, he tirelessly taught students from the smallest tricycle riders to all of the big kids — all to ensure they had fun and learned safe biking.

"Marty is the first to say 'yes' when asked for help and he brings 100% to his coaching,” she said.

Andrews told chamber officials that he was inspired to volunteer by his upbringing in the North Seattle area. There, he said, he learned the joy of volunteering from an individual who was very caring of others and was always willing to lend a hand when needed. They brought others into the fray by bringing them along to help with Special Olympics basketball, soccer, track and field, not to mention holiday food drives and delivering holiday baskets. 

Like so many of us, we learn from those closest to us, chamber officials said. And the amazing community member Marty learned from? It was his mother, who showed him the importance of helping with unconditional love and action.

Now, here in Sandpoint, the volunteer opportunities are plenty. When possible, he has given back to the Pend Oreille Pedalers, Snowboard Northwest, CHAFE, East Bonner County Library, and to his neighbors.

"Every little bit counts when it comes to giving back unconditionally to your surroundings, whether it's a little or a lot, it makes a big difference," Mickey Quinn, Greater Sandpoint Chamber executive director, said.