Last week, we were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Wanda Olsrud. For so many years, Wanda was a true beacon of light in our community. She and her husband were steadfast in their generosity, giving thoughtfully and intentionally to causes that directly support and uplift children.

The first time I met Wanda was at church, shortly after I moved to the area twelve years ago to accept the role of Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County. My son was still young and eagerly looked forward to going to the front of the sanctuary to sit with our pastor during the
children’s sermon. That very first Sunday, I noticed Wanda immediately—her eyes lit up and her smile widened as the children made their way forward.

A few weeks later, I found myself in a meeting with a couple who were strong supporters of the CAC. To my surprise, it was Wanda and her husband, Sherm—the same woman whose eyes had twinkled as she watched the children laugh and gather at the front of the church. During that meeting, Wanda shared stories about her own children, and Sherm told me what remains one of the greatest love stories I have ever heard: how he and Wanda met, built their life together, raised their family, and eventually opened their grocery stores. Together, they spoke passionately about how deeply they believed in giving back to the community that, in their words, had given them so much.

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County is profoundly grateful to Wanda Olsrud for her extraordinary generosity and her unwavering care for children throughout our community. Her gifts reflect a lifelong commitment to ensuring that children are safe, supported, and given every opportunity to thrive. Wanda’s compassion and generosity reached far beyond any single gift. They live on in the children she helped, the families she supported, and the community she made stronger.

I am honored to have known Wanda and am profoundly thankful for the lasting impact of her kindness.