NeveHarms

Mike started his volunteering back in 1977 when he coached the Little League program in Peoria Heights. Don Matthews was the director. Mike later became the director of this program. The youths involved were 7 to 12 years old.

He also coached in the Little League program at the ALF's program at the Herke Field at Central High School.

He volunteered for many years at Woodrow Wilson and Hines grade school programs.

He eventually took over the program at Woodrow Wilson and was the director.

While at Peoria Central Little League he turned that program around, including a summer's end cookout for the parents and the young players, where everyone got involved with games and activities.

The many area coaches all said if you ever asked Mike Persich to help in any basketball or baseball programs where the youth of central Illinois were involved, Mike never hesitated to pitch in and help.

Mike received a certificate from Mayor Bud Grieves a few years ago which was a commendation for all the volunteering he does for our young people.

He has worked full time for the last 23 years at United Parcel Service.

Mike has worked with the basketball program at Woodruff on recent years and now is Assistant Varsity Coach there.

Mike credits his parents and four older brothers who helped him in growing up and being the citizen he is. Mike is married to his wife, Misty, and has a young son, Noah. Misty is expecting another child in September.