Volunteers are the hands, feet, and heart that power Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation’s (MWR) mission. We simply couldn’t do what we do without their incredible contributions of time and talent. Each month, we highlight one of the amazing people who help bring our mission to life.
This month, we’re thrilled to introduce MWR Board President, Wayne Spell!
Wayne has been with MWR so long he says, “I don’t actually remember the date I first volunteered. It was in the early 2000s.” At the time, he noticed there were few options for school field trips in north Mississippi. With elementary-aged children of his own, and after yet another trip to the Pink Palace in Memphis, someone suggested he reach out to MWR’s founder, Val Smith, who had a vision for a local nature center. Intrigued, Wayne joined the board to help secure the funding needed to make that vision a reality.
Since then, Wayne has served faithfully on the board of directors, now as President. Over the years, he has pitched in at fundraisers, workdays, and community events—often with his family alongside him. “I have tried to use the influence the Lord has given me in various stages of my life to promote the interest of MWR when it aligned with funding opportunities,” Wayne shares. “I involved my family when I could and used our volunteer time to promote community service and environmental stewardship.”
Fun Fact: Wayne had a mentor who was like a grandfather to him, often reminding him, “It’s a long road without a bend in it.” Reflecting on his own journey with MWR, Wayne says, “My journey with MWR has had many bends in the road, but I’m encouraged with the progress we’re making and thankful for the leadership of our Executive Director, Mykl Wallrath.”
🌿 Thank you, Wayne, for your dedication and leadership in making a difference for Mississippi’s native wildlife!
MWR is currently in need of dedicated volunteers to help in the following areas:
• Social Media Coordinator
• Wildlife Rehabilitation / Animal Care
• Baby Bird Care / Feeding (Spring & Summer)
• Education Programs
• Rehab Patient Transport
• Fundraising
Interested in volunteering?
Complete our volunteer application here:
👉 https://www.mswildliferehab.org/files/MWR-Volunteer-Registration-Form.pdf
And send it to: volunteer@mswildliferehab.org