Mike McElhaney came to PFEW via the Educator's route. He lives in Warren, PA and teaches at Warren Area HS. For years, he heard Michelle Warofka, schools manager at PFEW, come into his classes and tell the students about this wonderful PFEW experience held in Williamsport. Finally, with some prodding from Michelle, he decided to make the trip to Williamsport and see what all of the excitement was about. That was in 2008 and he hasn't missed a summer since. Now, not only does Mike continue to volunteer, he began bringing along his then fiancée, Jessica Shoemaker, also an Educator in the Warren area. Wedding bells rang for the couple and 2013 was their first summer at PFEW as "Mr. and Mrs. McElhaney".
When asked what he has learned from his PFEW experience Mike said "I have learned that there is something for everyone at PFEW. There are so many lessons and life skills that will be useful in the future for the students and are just part of the great experience that is PFEW." When Jessica was asked what she has learned she responded "PFEW not only teaches students about the free enterprise system, but gives each student the opportunity to show his or her strengths in multiple areas of interest."
During his free time Mike enjoys canoeing, hiking, fishing... well, basically anything outdoors! His favorite color is blue and his favorite food is butter and onion pan fried potatoes and cheese pierogies. During Jessica's free time she enjoys creating artwork, outdoor activities and baking. Her favorite food is stuffed meatloaf with cheese and ham and her favorite color is purple.
