During this year’s Month of Giving, we’ve shared many ways employees can give back to their community, beyond monetary donations. One of the ways our employees are giving back is serving on nonprofit boards. Check out the employee stories below to learn how they became involved with their nonprofits and why serving on a board is important to them.
Lauren M., Director Ethics & Compliance
Child Crisis Arizona Governance Committee and Compensation Committee
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
I first learned about this organization when a good friend of mine fostered and adopted her son through Child Crisis Arizona. Through her experience, I saw how this organization provided love and support to a child going through a very traumatic time and have seen the truly heartwarming outcomes of their programs.
Why is being a board member important to you?
I am a mom of two and feel so lucky to be able to provide them with the life they have. But I know many are not as fortunate as us, so I feel compelled to give back to my community and be a part of an organization that helps the most vulnerable population of our community, our children. The children who are helped by CCA are dealing with tremendous challenges through no fault of their own, and I am proud to be part of an organization that helps them through these difficult times.
Jeff S., General Manager Hauling
Cincinnati ToolBank Advisory Committee Member and Founding Vice President
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
Getting involved with the food bank was close to me because growing up my family needed help with getting enough food to make ends meet.
Why is being a board member important to you?
I grew up in a rough neighborhood and my family had a tough time making ends meet. I wanted to give back to so many people that helped me get to where I’m at today.
Chuck H., Director, Government Affairs
Nation’s Finest Board Secretary
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
I am a Vietnam era Veteran and was connected to the organization by a fellow Veteran.
Why is being a board member important to you?
Following the Vietnam War, I saw the struggles and lack of support extended to returning Veterans. Serving on the Nation’s Finest board has given me the opportunity, in a small way, to help ensure that Veterans and their families have the support they need to live productive lives.
Susan P., Manager Municipal Sales
Boys and Girls Club of Alton Board Member
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
I became familiar with the club while I served on the board of our local United Way. The Boys and Girls Club is a very well-known and viable nonprofit organization in our community. After assisting with a volunteer event and engaging with others I was asked to interview for a board position; a position opened about 4 months later and I was asked to join!
Why is being a board member important to you?
It’s important to me to give back to the community I live in and working with the younger population is refreshing and encouraging – it’s awesome to see kids have opportunities to learn, grow, mentor and lead – reaching their full potential!
Kristen S., Talent Acquisition Manager
The Mustard Seed of Central Florida Vice Chair
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
I volunteered with The Mustard Seed as a teenager and have always felt a calling to uplift the less fortunate members of my Central Florida community. In 2019, I was reintroduced to The Mustard Seed by a colleague I met while working with The Florida Diversity Council. He invited me to learn more about Board membership at The Mustard Seed and all the stars aligned!
Why is being a board member important to you?
I’ve always felt a calling to serve others, especially those in my local community. The Mustard Seed is an amazing organization through which I can help thousands of families each year.
Kyle T., Landfill Operations Manager
Keep Abilene Beautiful President Elect
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
I joined Keep Abilene Beautiful by signing up as a volunteer. This was a result of networking with the community I serve in and listening to their concerns. From there, I signed up to join the Board so I could share by knowledge and lead by example. I served on the board approximately one year and was voted in to be President Elect.
Why is being a board member important to you?
I have always done my best to serve my community and be a pillar to those around me. When I heard about Keep Abilene Beautiful and how they are involved in the community, I knew I had found my place. In addition, to being a Board member, I also serve on the outreach and education committee. I love to get involved, educate people on environmental sustainability, and impact where I live. This gave me a great platform to do just that.
Jean M., Senior Manager Customer Experience Field Management
Tucson Young Professionals Growth/Revenue Committee and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Task Force Co-Leader
How did you get involved with this organization and how did you become a board member?
Tucson, Arizona is my hometown but I had been living elsewhere for two decades. I moved back during the pandemic and was looking for meaningful ways to get involved in my community. I joined TYP as a general member, then led our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion team for a year, before joining the Board of Directors.
Why is being a board member important to you?
Many times, we see young people leave Tucson or choose not to move to Tucson because of perceived and real challenges in our community. TYP brings young people across sectors and backgrounds together to engage, learn, develop, and take action toward building a more prosperous Tucson for our future. That means the world to me as I seek to impact this community that I love.