Dad, daughter -- longtime volunteers -- put on Santa caps

Father-daughter duo Mike and Amanda Watford were in the Christmas spirit while they donated their time recently to help hand out food and toys to those in need.

The Watfords were taking part in Northwest Assistance Ministries' (NAM) annual Neighbors in Need program, in which individuals and organizations from around the community donate to those in need during the holiday season. NAM handles hundreds of requests for assistance each year, and it would be impossible without this kind of community support.

Mike and Amanda have lived in the Houston area since 1981 and enjoyed considerable success in their professional lives, in addition to the good work they have done for the community. Mike has worked for several oil and gas companies in the area, while Amanda currently works as a chemical engineer.

Although Mike joked that NAM “obviously lacked alternative candidates and went deep on their list to find someone of my caliber,” he is well-deserving of his board member status, a position he started in November. He and his family have been involved in charitable activities, both NAM-related and otherwise, for more than 20 years.

“We first became involved through our church,” Amanda said. “My mom was looking for ways to volunteer, so she became very involved with Northwest Assistance Ministries. Through our church and through various charity leagues, our family started to become more involved with volunteering at food pantries, Meals on Wheels and the resale shop.”

Mike was quick to emphasize that the drive was by no means an individual effort, giving high praise both to the community and to NAM’s department heads, who have dedicated so much time and work to the cause.

“It’s one thing to deliver toys to 2,300 kids,” Mike said. “That’s great, but I think they’ve fought more, day-in and day-out, for the community.”

He also pointed out how successful NAM has been with providing the most important kinds of support to families in the area. While items such as toys are certainly important in their own way, NAM has focused on the true necessities.

“I think NAM is really good about the food and shelter, and those kinds of items,” Mike said. "I also think that what they’re doing with the kids on the medical side is super.”

About Mike and Amanda Watford
Ages: 59 and 34
Occupations: Petroleum company employee and chemical engineer
Community Connection: Live in The Woodlands
Fast Fact: Have been involved with NAM for 20 years

Chris Marshall is a freelance writer. He can be reached at neighborhoods@chron.com.