After 30 Years of Service to Roseville, Mike Shellito Continues to Give Back
May 19, 2015 01:38PM ● By Amber Foster
Mike and Marley - Photo by Dante Fontana © Style Media Grou
During his 31 years as Roseville’s Parks and Recreation director, Mike Shellito helped plan and execute over 50 major park improvement projects, including the Woodcreek Golf Course, the Roseville Sports Center, the Martha Riley Library and the Roseville Aquatics Complex.
Upon his retirement, one project was even named after him—the Mike Shellito Indoor Pool—but for Shellito, the most rewarding part of his years with the city was helping to create recreational facilities for future generations to enjoy. “It’s a lot of people’s legacy,” he explains. “Myself, along with hundreds of people, helped make that happen. It’s wonderful to know that I had a hand in helping to create that.”
Since retiring from the City of Roseville in 2010, Shellito continues to volunteer at the Rotary Club and the Placer SPCA (placerspca.org). In January of this year, he was elected president of the SPCA’s board of directors, and he is excited to help make a difference in enhancing the lives of companion animals and the people who love them.
On May 29, the organization will host a “Woof, Wine & Dine” event to raise funds for the SPCA’s new facility on Yosemite Street in Roseville. Shellito—a lifelong dog lover—is just proud to be part of an organization that boasts nearly 1,000 volunteers who supports the care and adoption of 2,189 animals each year.
“When you’re lucky enough to have a career that gives you the chance to make a difference, you should do that,” Shellito shares. “It all comes back to you and makes your life better, too.”
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?
A: Let go to gain control.
Q: What’s your biggest pet peeve?
A: Flight delays.
Q: What comes to you naturally?
A: Humor.
Q: Are you high or low maintenance?
A: I try not to sweat the small stuff.
Q: Biggest life inspirations?
A: Seeing vision become reality.
Q: Favorite humanitarian cause?
A: Rotary International’s effort to eradicate polio worldwide.
Q: Best words of wisdom you’ve received?
A: Givers get.
For more about Mike Shellito and other local happenings and information, be sure to pick up this month's copy of Style – Roseville Rocklin Granite Bay edition.