KIM WATERS
62 , Meridian Accountant
Waters ’ nominator : “ Kim Waters is committed to serving others , not only in
Meridian but also the surrounding area .
In April 2018 , a tornado hit Meridian and Lauderdale County . Through a $ 250,000 FEMA grant , a Partners in Recovery Committee was formed and Kim coordinated the group working with several local entities as well as numerous volunteers . She has further shown her leadership skills through her service on the Board of Directors of the Meridian Restoration Foundation Inc .”
Civic , social and / or church affiliations : Community Foundation of East Mississippi , President , Board Member ; Central Baptist Church – Church Council , Hospitality Committee ; Partners in Recovery Long Term Recovery Committee , President ; Meridian Restorations Foundation , President ; Mississippi Children ’ s Museum – Midnight at the Museum Auction Co-Chair ; Fortnightly Literary Club ; Taking Stock Investment Club ; Hope Village Guild ; MAP ( Meridian Arts Partners ); Junior Auxiliary of Meridian Lifetime Member
Origins of spirit of altruism : My daddy – just watching him work on different projects and committees . I saw a lot of things that he “ silently ” worked on to make a difference . I became involved in high school through Debs .
Importance of giving back to the community : I love Meridian Everyone should strive to make their community better today which will lead to a better community tomorrow . Things don ’ t happen overnight . I have had the privilege to help start or continue work that was in progress with several entities . I marvel at the work of volunteers that has gone on for quite some time to make Meridian what it is today .
Share an aspect of a volunteer experience that you ’ ve really enjoyed . In working with each organization or group that I ’ ve been involved with , I ’ ve learned so many things about our community and the people who live here . I ’ ve met a lot of people and been able to work alongside a lot of people that have become friends . It has also enabled me to network , making connections that has helped me with other projects or organizations .
Community ’ s greatest assets : Definitely the people !!! We have such generous people who are willing to work together to make things happen .
Motto or favorite quote : Volunteer where you feel led . Don ’ t just “ give back .” To “ give back ,” you must have received something first . Give of your time , gives of your resources and give your love .
• Kim Waters and her husband M . L . have been married 41 years . They have three children , Josh ( Christin ) Waters and Cori Waters , and a granddaughter , Callie .
22 • TIMELESS MERIDIAN