Born and raised in Placerville, Diane Wilkinson has worn numerous hats throughout her life, including college and high school teacher, real estate broker, and general contractor, but the hat she wears most often when volunteering with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference is her chef's hat! Diane's catering business is known for its beautifully presented and delicious meals for everything from weddings to corporate banquets and intimate soirées. She has been donating her tasty services for various Hands4Hope events, and we couldn't be more delighted to help everyone get to know this remarkable woman behind the scenes.
How did you first come to be involved with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference?
At some point in my involvement with the community and catering, I come across Jennifer Bassett, and well, it is all history from there. She grabbed my soul. Her vision and hope was invigorating and made total sense to me. I see how she interacts with the community and everyone, and it is just pure joy and true love. I was hooked. And for me to say that is huge because over 30 years of catering I have given and donated consistently to various community organizations. Hands4Hope is where I feel safe. People have called me "The hardest working woman in El Dorado County" but I think that Jennifer Bassett is dogging for that title!
In what ways have you been involved with Hands4Hope as an Adult Volunteer?
I am not wealthy, I have worked hard for everything in my life, so I give and do what I can with my time and little money I have. Often, this is through donating my catering services. My other favorite way to be involved is by bidding on adventures during the Hands4Hope Endless Summer Beach Party!
What do you want others to know who might be considering getting involved with Hands4Hope?
Society focuses on the less fortunate, and rightly so. But what is the change agent? Well, I believe it is what Hands4Hope is all about: showing the next generation selflessness and what it means to be involved. It should be taught in school as Community Involvement 101!
What are you passionate about?
Staying fit, world travel, reading and LAUGHING.