Her volunteer efforts include administering a free scrapbooking/memories workshop to teach how to make memory books for foster children so they can have something positive to remember about their childhood, and mentoring foster care parents. Ryan is also passionate about seeking community donations of clothing and other items for foster children.

She additionally serves as a respite foster caregiver parent through the Washington  State Foster Care program often giving relief to foster parents on weekends. 

Mona Lisa’s foster care volunteer activities are in addition to working full time for the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long Term Care and raising two children with husband Mike.

In nominating Ms. Ryan for the award, Jennifer Hardgrove wrote, “Mona Lisa is one great lady with a twinkle in her eyes, a big smile and a heart even bigger”.

The Kitsap Credit Union/Kitsap Sun Healthy Tomorrow award honors individuals and organizations whose contributions significantly improve the quality of life locally, hereby helping our communities look forward to a vibrant, healthy future. 

To nominate a deserving person, please visit any Kitsap Credit Union branch or visit www.kitsapsun.com/healthytomorrow.

Mona Lisa Ryan, August 2008