Friday, October 4, 2024
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I serve as Vice President of the IAM Board of Directors and Chair the Board Development and Governance Committee. I led our strategic planning process. On Tuesday mornings, I am a cashier in our wonderful new thrift store and love interacting with customers.
I have volunteered during every phase of my adult life from Brownie and Girl Scout Leader to PTA president to a variety of boards. I was originally a clinical social worker but spent 20 years as a nonprofit executive and strategic planning consultant. So, when my husband and I moved to Henderson County in 2004 as retirees, I wanted to do direct service again. For eight years, I was a Literacy Council tutor and Guardian ad Litem. I joined the Board of the Literacy Council, eventually serving as president. I have been a United Way volunteer since 2009 and am in my 11th year on that board, having served as Strategic Planning Chair for six years. I chair the Henderson County Home and Community Block Grant Advisory Committee. I was on the Henderson County Board of Social Services for three years, serving as vice president and president.
I grew up in a culture of giving. I was taught to help people who had less than I and to volunteer in the community. So, I feel that responsibility naturally. But as a retiree, especially since I live alone now, it is necessary for my mental health. I need meaningful work to do, and I need to be involved with other people. I get as much or more than I give.
Feeling useful and getting to know some very good people. I have been privileged to work with many of our finest business and civic leaders, and I get to know other volunteers who share my values.
Consider the level of involvement you want. Would you get satisfaction from having a personal relationship with a child or adult, helping them grow and learn? Then, tutoring or mentoring is for you. If you’d rather be behind the scenes, or if you aren’t here year-round, sorting food at a food pantry or clothing at a thrift store or shelving books at Friends of the Library are some of many choices. How about volunteering with an older child to provide a learning experience?