News

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Debi Gould

Debi Gould

By Bill Moss, Published: November 23, 2022

Debi Gould

United Way

What do you do in your volunteer job?

I am an active member of the United Way Small Business League, which is a collective part of the United Way Sponsorship Family. 

For the most recent United Way fundraising cycle, I served on the United Way Program Evaluation Panel for Basic Needs and Crisis Services.

On the United Way Day of Action 2022, I served as a lead volunteer, supervising approximately 65 volunteers at one of the local high schools.

I am currently participating in United Way's Rising Leaders Program. It is a leadership development program that provides training on how to become an effective board member for a non-profit.

 I head up the United Way Workplace Campaign at my place of employment.

I am a group leader for Wreaths Across America, which raises funds to provide wreaths for the veteran's graves at the Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain. I help coordinate the annual wreath laying and ceremony.

I coordinate a local group, collecting funds for Christmas to assist the Storehouse with Blessings in a Box.

How long have you been volunteering?

As long as I can remember, volunteering has always been a big part of my life.

My volunteer work has included my children's schools, civic organizations, non-profits, church etc.

Why do you volunteer?

I like being able to do something good for others and my community. It makes me happy and proud and keeps me humble. It gives me a sense of accomplishment. Very simply, I guess you could say, "it feeds my soul."

What's the best thing about volunteering?

Knowing you have made a difference if only in a small way and working with others who share your interest and passion.

If someone is interested in volunteering, what advice would you give based on your own experience?

Don't hesitate. Find something you love, a cause that's meaningful to you, and volunteer. You can make a difference. If you have children, start them early on the importance of giving back and being a good human. Be sure to maintain a healthy balance in your life. It's easy to overextend ourselves sometimes.