Born in Douglassville in Berks County, Michelle Holsopple’s parents raised her to be involved in church and school functions, the goal being to help others and that upbringing has followed her all her life.
After graduating from Slippery Rock University where she received her degree in education, Michelle wed her husband Darrin and moved to Pittsburgh in 1994. Before starting their family, Michelle and Darrin spent three years in Guatemala.
Now living in Nottingham Township in Washington County, Michelle and Darrin have two boys, Gunnar and Lucas.
While working at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, where she teaches students with disabilities, she learned about Persad Center from her co-worker Michael Beigay. He encouraged her to get involved and for the past six years she has volunteered for Celebrate Life/Celebrate Art (now Art for Change), and is now on the organizing committee and co-chair of registration.
Darrin, who is her biggest supporter, summed it up when he said, “Michelle continually amazes me with the time and effort she dedicates to further the well-being of the LGBT community.”
Echoed Persad’s Development Director Bob McGrogan, “Michelle has been an invaluable addition to the Art for Change auction. As with most of our volunteers, she started as a volunteer at one event and is now part of the back bone of the biggest fund raising event Persad puts together; working for months to make it such a huge success. We couldn’t do it without her.”
And Michelle, explaining her involvement, said it best: “If opportunity presents itself, take it.”
For more information about the services offered by Persad or to volunteer, visit their website www.persadcenter.org