As the saying goes: “Those who can, do. Those who can do more, volunteer!” Duane Haverty has gone above and beyond for the National MS Society for 29 years and proven himself to be a leader among the Mid America Chapter’s core volunteer base. The Mid America Chapter has been honored to have Duane serve as a volunteer on countless committees for both Bike MS and Walk MS in his time with the Society. Duane has been involved with communication and logistics for the Mid America Chapter events since the inception of the Chapter’s Bike MS ride in 1982. For 29 years, the Mid America Chapter has been able to rely on Duane and his reputation for making sure the job gets done, as well as making others laugh along the way. Duane and Kay Julian, Chapter President, Mid America Chapter
From telling jokes to asking complete strangers if their yards can be used as a rest stop for 2,000 cyclists, Duane’s determination never wavers. Duane and wife, Pat, have done rest stop siting for Bike MS: Kansas City for multiple years in an effort to allow staff more time to work on other aspects of the ride. Duane is an experienced HAM radio operator for both Bike MS and Walk MS but he does not stop there. He sets up a table at HAM radio operator events to recruit volunteers for the National MS Society! Duane’s commitment to volunteering has not gone unnoticed by fellow volunteers. HAM radio operator, Dick Carter refers to Duane as a, “spark plug man. His efforts during Bike MS really pull it all together.” Duane Haverty is a man with heart; his altruism truly knows no bounds. He sets an example for those around him through proven leadership and passion, inspiring fellow volunteers of the National MS Society to go above and beyond. Duane’s leadership and compassion for the Mission of the National MS Society is invaluable and has been vital to the success of both Bike MS and Walk MS in the Kansas City area for nearly three decades. Duane Haverty is a prime example of the impact a volunteer as a leader can make on the well-being of an organization, fellow volunteers and most importantly, the mission we are all working towards together.