Saying yes to those in need

In May, the Fricke family traveled to Nara, Japan, where Misty pet a bowing deer.

People from all areas of life are accustomed to being touched by Misty Fricke’s generous heart. “There’s a lot of people out there who need help,” said Misty, who volunteers for various nonprofit organizations throughout Colorado. “I’m just one of those people who doesn’t say no.”

Born and raised in Champaign, Illinois, Misty met her husband, Bill, through mutual friends and moved to Colorado in 2014. They have called Forest Park home for the last seven years. “I like Castle Pines and I love Forest Park,” Misty said. “It’s a really nice neighborhood. You feel like you’re in the mountains. It’s beautiful.”

Their son Michael (28) resides in Colorado and daughter Amber (22) recently moved to New York City. Both attended Valor Christian High School, where Misty volunteered. Today, she works in Valor’s finance department.

Over the years, Misty worked in accounting and as a hair stylist before turning her attention to volunteering, often forming bonds with those she helps.

For the past four years, Misty has worked as a driver for HopSkipDrive, which provides safe and reliable transportation to students who are unable to use the traditional bus system, often due to homelessness or placement in foster care.

In addition, Misty also volunteers for Bin Blessed, a local organization that collects donations that supports There With Care, another nonprofit that is close to Misty’s heart. The organization provides services to families with children facing a medical crisis, often surprising them with Uber rides, gas cards or even paying their mortgage.

“My main job is to reach out to schools to see if we can get them to do food drives,” said Misty. “We also deliver groceries.”

Whether raising money or obtaining donations, Misty’s motto is simple. “All you can do is ask,” she said. “All they can do is say ‘no.’ You don’t know until you ask.”

With little free time in her schedule, Misty is also a board member for Lighthouse Discovery Center, a nonprofit day program in Castle Rock for neurodivergent youth and young adults. And last month she planned the summer party for The Village at Castle Pines Garden Club, of which she is a member.

With the back-to-school season underway, and the holidays around the corner, Misty’s willingness to jump in will aid even more families and individuals. “People know, ‘I’ll call Misty and she’ll figure it out,’” she said.