Most Influential Women 2007: Renette Wardlow

“In that capacity, I have had the opportunity to touch the lives of many children, teens, families and senior citizens by conducting classes and workshops on many issues important in their lives,” she said, noting that issues addressed include parenting, stress management, and HIV and AIDS education.

What she does off the clock, however, also is important for Wardlow, who is the volunteer director of the Christian County Family Crisis Center, Freedom’s Rest, a shelter for abused women and children.

“My proudest accomplishment has been being able to rally enough Christian County residents, businesses and organizations together to make a shelter for abused women and children a reality,” Wardlow said. “I couldn’t be prouder than when I look into the faces of the people who come to the shelter and I see that they finally feel safe.”

The shelter is an outgrowth of a public issues forum held 11 years ago, which identified domestic violence as a key emerging issue in Christian County.

“With no funding, but much desire and motivation, a task force was formed, a hotline number was set up, an office for referral services was opened, volunteers were obtained and the work of guest speaking and fundraising began,” Wardlow said.

In 2004, a facility was donated for use as a shelter, but it needed extensive repairs. Much of the labor was donated by Christian County residents, and a thrift store, still in operation today, was opened to help offset expenses. Wardlow’s husband and two sons also got in on the act. A year ago, the family sold its Ozark home to move to and run the Christian County Family Crisis Center.

“This is truly a family project,” Wardlow said.

Wardlow is chairwoman of the shelter’s 15-member board, and the organization has applied for 501(c)3 status. To date, more than 200 women and children have made the shelter their temporary home.

Wardlow’s community efforts also include membership in both the Nixa and Ozark chambers of commerce and serving on several committees and boards, such as the Christian County Child Welfare Advisory Board.

One-on-one with Renette Wardlow

What advice do you have for young women preparing to enter the work force?

Set your goals high enough to challenge yourself; if (something is) important to you and you know that you can do it, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Beyond the Golden Rule, what philosophy guides you?

Work hard, remain focused, keep motivated and good things will happen.

When you were young, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to be a pediatrician. That didn’t work out, so I have found a way to help children and families through my work with University Extension.

Please tell us about your family.

My husband, Jon, and I have been married for 22 years. We have two wonderful sons, Michael, 19, and Andy, 16. I also have a most precious granddaughter, Haley Nichole. Michael is engaged to be married to Casey Foskuhl. I am originally from Wisconsin. My parents and five siblings and their families still live in Wisconsin.