by Gabrielle Bryne
South Sound Education and Involvement Coordinator

Sharon Bergquist-Moody moved to Olympia from Portland about 10 months ago. “I’ve always loved Puget Sound and we knew that when we retired we wanted to come back…and it’s half way between our two kids. 

She started volunteering for People For Puget Sound after visiting the East Bay project site during a work-day.  “I asked about the project and about People For Puget Sound and after Dan answered my questions, I told him I wanted to help.” 

Since that fateful day, Sharon has helped with a variety of projects around the South Sound.  Before retiring she worked as a kindergarten and 1st grade teacher for Portland Public schools and that background has made her a valuable resource for helping with People For Puget Sound outreach.  “But I love to be outside, too,” she adds.

What keeps her coming back is the idea that her work really makes a difference.  “In perspective there are lots of big things that need to happen, but I like working to get the message across to people that it’s the little things that matter too.  And in the spots where I’ve worked regularly, like the East Bay and Lubliner projects, I can really see the differences over time.  I’m don’t see myself stopping any time soon.” 

When Sharon’s not volunteering for People For Puget Sound she love to play outside.  “We hike, canoe and I like to bicycle and garden as well.  She also volunteers for the Native Plant Salvage. “In addition to the environment, I am also passionate about literacy, so I go read with kids once a week at our neighborhood daycare and twice a week at the Evergreen Vista Community Center during their homework time. My husband and I also do several deliveries a month for Thurston County Foodbank, two of those times are the backpack food program to schools for kids who are homeless.” 

Any if that’s not enough to keep her jumping, Sharon is about to become a first-time grandma!  “I’m looking forward to sharing what I’m learning.” she adds. 

Join us in saluting Sharon, our South Sound star!