For eight-year-old Nora Riechmann, her grandmother Jane Riechmann has been the “Litter Lady” for as long as she can remember. For years, the elder Riechmann has patrolled St. Johns Avenue in Avondale a few mornings a week, picking up litter to keep the area clean.
“Gammy started [cleaning up] because she doesn’t like litter and wanted to help the environment and neighborhood,” explained Nora, a third grader at John Stockton Elementary School.
Now, Nora is following in her grandmother’s philanthropic footsteps, donating her time and effort to various causes.
“Gammy is a role model to me and others because she helps the environment and everyone needs to be doing that – she works very hard and sets a very good example,” said Nora.
Like her grandmother was, Nora is a Girl Scout, which has strengthened her commitment to environmental stewardship.
“In Girl Scouts, we help the environment and make the world a better place,” said Nora.
In addition to helping her grandmother pick up trash, she collects pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House, which recycles them and raises funds to provide lodging, meals and comfort to families of sick children.
Nora is also active in her church and her school communities. She serves and delivers Wednesday night dinners at Riverside Park United Methodist Church and helps with fundraisers as John Stockton Elementary’s Student Council Treasurer. Nora says she likes volunteering because she enjoys helping others and because of the valuable experience it provides her.
Asked what she thinks of her granddaughter’s philanthropic activities, Jane Riechmann is nothing but proud of Nora.
“She is a sweet and bright young lady at only eight years of age, always willing to help and a great big sister to her brother Shep,” said Jane. “We are blessed.”
With all she has going on, Nora still finds time to fit in some fun. Some of her hobbies include crafting, decorating, sports and tumbling.
