Exceptional People: Maija Maki-Laurila

Born and raised in Finland, Prairie Ridge resident Maija Maki-Laurila eventually made her way to the Midwest. She spent part of her career in St. Paul, before taking a job at ABS in DeForest. She spent 25 years at ABS before her retirement. “I figured as long as I still drive, I might as well go out and be active in the community,” shares Maija. And she certainly is active. Maija has spent most Monday mornings for the last 12 years at Second Harvest Foodbank. To date, she’s volunteered over 1,300 hours of her time there. She can usually be found doing ‘product recovery,’ sorting fresh fruits and vegetables into servings suitable for single families. Over the years, Maija has built a sense of camaraderie with the other volunteers which adds to her enjoyment of the work.

Maija’s volunteer commitments make for a busy schedule. In addition to Second Harvest, Maija volunteers at the Overture Center where she is an usher. She also works with the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra for Concerts on the Square, the Union Theater and Wisconsin Public Television. “I’m gone most nights of the week!” she says. Of course, life at Oakwood offers plenty of volunteering opportunities as well. “I just started volunteering here, and as time permits, I will continue to do more.”