Chilton Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award
Recognition for Community Outreach & Engagement

Paula is one of those rare people whose joy for life naturally spills over into the lives of everyone around her. With a warm smile, boundless energy, and a heart dedicated to others, she makes it her mission each day to brighten someone else’s world.

Known throughout the community for her quiet but meaningful acts of kindness, Paula looks for opportunities every day to lend a helping hand. Whether she’s guiding someone safely along an icy sidewalk, carrying packages, assisting children on their way to school, or simply offering encouragement to someone who needs it, Paula turns ordinary moments into acts of compassion.

Her love for the community is also reflected in the many ways she volunteers. Each year she organizes a private fundraiser to support the Calumet County Humane Society, helping ensure animals in need receive the care and love they deserve. During the winter months, Paula spreads cheer in a delightfully unique way - by making snow angels in all kinds of weather for elderly neighbors, shut-ins, and friends who could use a smile.

Paula is also an enthusiastic supporter of events and traditions. She proudly serves as a Chilton City Band Booster, helping with performances, and each holiday season she steps into the joyful role of “Elf Mort” for the Chilton Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade. She also lends her time to community celebrations by assisting with Chilton Optimist events - even though she is not a club member - helping with the Christmas Light Ride and delighting children each year as the Easter Bunny at the annual egg hunt.

In addition to her volunteer work, Paula has a creative spirit and a passion for photography. Her photographs have been recognized for promoting the beauty of the City of Chilton and Calumet County. She has even received recognition from Hallmark for the greeting cards she designs using her photography, sharing her artistic eye with a wider audience.

There are countless things Paula does for others - many of them small, quiet moments that never make headlines but make a tremendous difference in someone’s day. She never seeks recognition, receiving a simple thank you or perhaps a hug in return is always more than enough.

Paula’s generosity, kindness, and joyful spirit remind us all how powerful simple acts of love can be. Those who know her are incredibly fortunate to call her a friend, and our community is brighter because of her.