South County Profile: Marge Taylor

When cutbacks took place 21 years ago in the Redding Elementary School District, Marge Taylor was out of a job, but not out of her Christian faith.

At her church, she heard that the Anderson-Cottonwood Christian Assistance (ACCA) was looking for a volunteer to serve between three and four hours a month to help the organization.

Now, with her 21st anniversary coming up in March, she contributes some 80 to 90 hours a month to ACCA as secretary to the board.

The ride, both physically and financially, has been up and down. Some times it was difficult to make the rent, like last year when FEMA’s contribution was not readily available due to hurricane Katrina.

The one thing that has been consistent is Taylor’s faith that the organization will continue helping those in need. She smiles when she says there are now 107 who volunteer at ACCA on a regular basis. Fourteen area churches help with donations to keep the center going.

And Taylor cannot say enough for her volunteer supporters. Food Coordinator Ed Carpenter, “travels to Sacramento and shops around the area” each week to pick up food for ACCA. She is equally effusive about Barbara Thurman, the ACCA’s Client Services Director.

Name: Marge Taylor

Born: Springfield, Ill., Feb. 23, 1927.

Occupation: Retired/volunteer at ACCA.

Marital Status: Widow.

Family: Daughter Lori Scott – Treasurer/Tax Collector/Public Administrator for Shasta County.

Pets: Scottish Terrier – Princess.

My worst job: Inspecting the inside of shoes for nails at an international shoe company.

My first job: Carrying newspapers.

In my spare time I: read and help people.

My favorite book: Too many to mention.

My favorite movie: Wagon Train.

My favorite recording artist: Engelbert Humperdinck and Andy Williams.

My dream car: I guess I have it now enjoying my wheelchair.

My friends like me because: I smile a lot.

If stranded on a deserted island, I would want: My family and drinking water.

The one thing in life I’ve learned is: The Golden Rule.

The best advice my parents gave me: The Golden Rule.

My most embarrassing moment was: Can’t remember, I’m too old.

My most irrational act: Can’t remember that either.

My most valued material possession: My Bible and my wheelchair.

What I like best about the North State: Wonderful people, friends and family.

My hero is: Lori, my daughter.

My pet peeve is: Liars and cheaters.

My fantasy is: Being able to dance again.

If I could change one thing about myself I would: Lose weight.

The one thing Shasta County needs most is: More employment.

The most enjoyable thing about life is: Friends, wonderful family and helping.