Mrs Eileen Mueller, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was honoured recently for her contributions over many years to Wellington and Wairarapa communities.
The ‘Local Hero Medal’ recipient joined 14 other Wellingtonians who were also recognized for their service. The awards are part of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards. 130 Local Heroes were recognised nationally.
Mrs Mueller has organized many community projects including the Books for Fiji initiative, foodbank collections, baking and toiletries for homeless men, clean-up and tree-planting efforts, marae and school painting projects, among others.
Caption: Eileen Mueller receiving her Local Hero medal with Mayor Celia Wade-Brown (left) and Kiwibank Chief Executive Kevin Brock. Image courtesy of Neil Mackenzie.
"Every individual can have an impact, “ says Eileen. “We’re all pieces in a giant jigsaw that makes up our community, each with different talents. I encourage everyone who sees a local need to contact a volunteer organisation and offer to help. Make a difference in your own small way. Help others to live better lives. It’s the most rewarding work you can do.”
Eileen is married to Kurt and is a busy mother of four children. She sings in the Faultline Barbershop Chorus and is a writer of young adult fantasy novels, children’s books and short stories.
Caption: Mrs Eileen Mueller visits with students who were some of the recipients of a donation of over 43,000 books to rural schools in Fiji. Mrs Mueller coordinated the 'Mormon Helping Hands' initiative bringing together churches, governments and others in New Zealand and Fiji. Image courtesy of Karen Larsen.