Lindsey Chisholm
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Lindsey Chisholm might be the most energetic person I’ve ever met. Seriously, if enthusiasm were a sport, she’d have a trophy case full of gold medals!
A dynamo in the Melrose community, Lindsey never says no to a good cause. Whether she’s leading donation drives, rallying for women’s dignity, or making neighborhood events bigger and better, her passion is as contagious as her ever-present smile.
One of her most impactful roles is as the Melrose ambassador for Dignity Matters, a nonprofit providing menstrual care products and underwear to women in need. Lindsey has been a driving force in raising awareness and mobilizing donations, ensuring that local women facing economic hardship have access to these essential items. Her dedication earned her a spot representing Dignity Matters at the Melrose Victorian Fair, thanks to MelroseKind. And she’s not just working locally—she’s advocated at the State Legislature for Bill 534, a proposal to increase access to menstrual products statewide.
When she’s not championing social causes, Lindsey is shaping young minds at Melrose Montessori, a beloved school celebrating over 50 years of learning. She played a key role in bringing a Peace Pole—a symbol of global unity—to the school grounds, embodying the values she holds dear.
Lindsey’s background is as vibrant as she is. Originally from the South, she has lived in Madrid, Mexico, and Peru, even conquering the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu. Her global perspective shines through in everything she does, whether it’s advocating for others, raising her children to be multilingual (they’re learning French!), or sharing her infectious spirit with the community.
Her love for animals runs just as deep as her love for people. Growing up with nine adopted dogs, she’s a passionate supporter of pet rescue. She co-owned Dogwood Cottage with Heidi Barraza, a beloved pet care business in Melrose (now known as RiverDog at 171 Tremont St.). Though she’s no longer at the helm, her commitment to animal welfare remains unwavering.
This year, Lindsey and Stephanie Nelson co-founded the Melrose Ladies Auxiliary Council at the Knights of Columbus. Their latest endeavor? Home for Heroes, a May 17th event honoring local veterans, police officers, firefighters, and EMTs. With food, music, raffles, and inspiring speakers, it’s bound to be an unforgettable celebration of those who serve.
And when election season rolls around, you’ll find Lindsey working at the polls because, as she firmly believes, “You have to show up to have your voice heard.”
Melrose is home to Lindsey, her husband, three children, and their dog. She calls this town a hidden gem filled with a vibrant, eclectic mix of people. “Melrose keeps on giving and feeds your soul,” she says. “It’s the heartbeat of America—what you see is what you get.”
Even with all she’s accomplished, Lindsey’s bucket list remains ambitious. She dreams of visiting the Wonders of the World—with Easter Island and the Galápagos Islands at the top of her list. She’s also eager to open another business, though what that will be is anyone’s guess!
And of course, no introduction to Lindsey would be complete without mentioning one of her favorite pastimes—cheering on the Savannah Bananas, the wacky, show-stopping baseball team that’s as fun and unconventional as she is.
With her boundless energy, unwavering commitment to service, and knack for bringing people together, Lindsey Sundberg Chisholm is more than just a community advocate—she’s a force of nature. And Melrose is all the better for it.
