Jeanne Walker Brings Joy to Her World

Ashland Local Town Pages would like to thank the many volunteers that make Ashland great. In this month’s Volunteer Spotlight, we would like to recognize longtime resident Jeanne Walker, who works on many community groups and town committees, using her love of history, theater and open space to give back and bring joy to others.
Walker has lived in Ashland for 52 years. “I came here to be in a smaller, intimate town where families would mostly know each other,” Walker said.
“Presently, I am on the Open Space and Recreation, Storm Water Advisory and GreenUp Ashland committees; and a board member, market hostess, and organizer for the Community Tent at the Ashland Farmers Market [AFM]. In past years, I was a Brownie leader, Cub Scout Den Mother, the first female member of Ashland Boy Scout Troop heading publicity, elementary school parent volunteer, longtime member and chair of the Ashland Cultural Counsel, and member of Zoning Review Committee,” she recalled.
“I also do volunteer work in Framingham, where I am a member and a docent of the Framingham History Center, board member and one of the founders of Framingham Community Theatre, and a volunteer for The Amazing Things Art Center and The Performing Arts Center of Metrowest, and past longtime board member.”
“I volunteer because I love the people I meet, I love what I do, and feel that everyone has an obligation to give back some of themselves to their community.”
In a recent interview, Walker was asked about her love of costumes.
“I have been collecting and wearing theme costumes for years, going back to my school teaching, working with theatre groups in the area, and being involved in productions. Wearing themed attire, whether at AFM, a committee meeting, in a tai chi or yoga class, or just being out and about often brings many a smile or conversations from folks. Bringing a little joy to the world is fun. I often do not plan ahead but pick out what works for any given day from my extensive collections. You’ll just have to come to the market to see what I might create this season!
Walker added: “I am a mother of three very grown children, I have six grandchildren and 1 and 1/2 great grandchildren. I am a retired teacher who taught gifted students and theatre for most of my career.”
“One of the things I like about Ashland now is that so many residents really care about our town and are actively engaged in volunteering to help it become an even better town.”