Where would small towns be without individuals who volunteer, donate, and lift up others around them? Fortunately, Tomah has many of those selfless individuals, with one particular person in mind. This recipient wears many hats like City of Tomah Mayor, owner of Murray's on Main, and volunteer. However, some might say that the hat he wears best represents his selflessness for the community he lives in. Oakdale Electric Cooperative is pleased to present the latest Selfless Service Award to Mike Murray.
Mike Murray is a well-known name around town, as he is a native to Tomah. However, his reach goes beyond knowing his name. Mike has influenced teens as a driving instructor and is a strong supporter of Special Olympics. He utilizes his business, Murray's on Main (MOMs), as an avenue to host Special Olympics fundraisers and a percentage of gratuity from MOMs goes into the charitable giving fund, MOM's Purse.
MOM's Purse is a charitable fund for giving back to the community in honor and memory of Mike's mom Virginia Murray, who passed in 2021. "The thought came from the fact that we wouldn't survive if it weren't for mom's purse," stated Mike. Portions of gratuity from Murray's on Main's large events go into MOM's Purse as well as proceeds from charitable fundraisers. Being that Mike is highly involved with and an activist for special needs, a Special Needs Christmas Party is held each year to provide a safe, joyful, and welcoming environment during the holidays. He concluded with, "because she was so giving and taught me how to work hard and do for others, it seemed fitting to form a charity in honor of her... MOM's Purse."
Shelby Scott, pictured above, nominated Mike for the Selfless Service Award. "Mike is willing to help anyone out and encourages others to care for their community too," stated Shelby. She mentioned that when the Tomah pool didn't have enough lifeguards to open, Mike donated money for youth to get their lifeguard certification so the pool could re-open, and it did. "He does these things for his community and he does it with honest intent of helping others," Shelby added.
From donating pizzas to youth organizations, to conducting fundraisers, Mike Murray is an asset to this community. Several nonprofits have been on the receiving end of MOM's Purse such as Families First, Family Promise of Monroe County, Treasured Chests, and more. A selfless individual, leader, and smiling face, Mike Murray is well deserving of the Selfless Service Award. "Mike truly is a leader by example and an advocate for the community he calls home," Shelby concluded.