Despite facing the challenges of multiple sclerosis and using a wheelchair, Palos Heights resident Valerie Baudo continues to focus on what she has always done: helping others.
Baudo, a former Worth School District student and former Worth Police Department dispatcher, recently teamed up with Worth Police Department Sergeant Mike Cozzi, Pawfficer Louie and RE/MAX 10 for a school supply drive to support students preparing for the upcoming school year.
Baudo worked as a dispatcher for the Worth Police Department from 2000 to 2001, a role that allowed her to connect with residents and serve the community.
“The Worth Police Department is so friendly, and I enjoyed helping others,” Baudo said.
Her dedication to helping others has continued long after her time with the department. As an active volunteer, Baudo said giving back remains an important part of her life.
“I love to give back to the community,” she said.
The idea for the school supply drive came after Baudo and Cozzi contacted Laki and Val Hatzelis of RE/MAX 10 to ask for their support. The company quickly stepped in to help collect donations for students in need.
“RE/MAX 10 has nine locations where they were more than willing to help out the students,” Baudo said.
The school supply drive is collecting new supplies for students before the start of the school year. Donations will be accepted through Aug. 4 and can be dropped off at any of RE/MAX 10’s nine locations.
Baudo said the goal is to make sure students have the resources they need to begin the school year prepared and confident.
Her continued volunteer work is another example of how community members can make a difference by helping those around them.