Philanthropic Leadership Award | ROGER & JOANIE UNDERWOOD
Since the 1980s, when Roger and Joanie met and began dating, serving others has been a major part of their lives. Both members of the Rotary Club of Topeka, they’ve worked hard living up to the association’s motto, “Service above Self.” They firmly believe they should contribute their time, talent and treasures to the local community, and they’ve done so by rolling their sleeves up and getting the work done.
What initiatives have fulfilled you the most?
We’ve both helped support so many organizations in Topeka — from the Boys and Girls Club to the Mulvane Art Museum to the United Way. Each of them help make our community a better place.
With all of them, it’s the little things that matter the most. Throughout our marriage we’ve visited with elderly folks and with each one, we’ve gained something special. We’ve made special bonds with all of them, whether it was talking about Elvis Presley or listening to the experience of having Alzheimer’s and what it’s like to not remember things. In the end, they all brought so much joy to our lives.
Why do you think it's important to give back?
We’ve both been so blessed in life. We have a roof over our head. We have good health. There are a lot of people around us who don’t have that. Sometimes just holding a door open can make a difference in a person’s life. It’s important to realize it’s not just about us as individuals. It’s about caring for everyone, as a society.
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