How long have you been participating with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference?
I have been a member of the Board of Directors since January 2019.
How did you hear about Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference?
I was first introduced to Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference by fellow Board member Pam Bartlett.
We know you could dedicate your time to many other boards/nonprofits in the community. What is your position on our Board and why did you choose Hands4Hope - - Youth Making A Difference?
Beginning in 2020, I have served as the Secretary of the Board and Chair of the Governance Committee, which provides the tools and structure to promote the Board’s effectiveness and continuing development. As an attorney, I’m often able to contribute my legal expertise to help Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference advance its mission. I've chosen to dedicate my time to Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference because I feel strongly that the time and energy we are putting into shaping our youth today is resulting in young adults who leave this program not only being civic-minded, but also with confidence, vision, compassion and leadership skills they may not have otherwise had.
What is your impression/experience with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference youth?
Technology like social media and cell phones has created a generation that is better connected than ever before, awakening in them a new sense of power and potential. Young people provide energy, creative ideas and determination to drive reform, and demand institutions that are more responsive to their needs and aspirations. But young people also face real challenges that must be overcome before they are able to fully exercise their potential. Hands4Hope youth have all different backgrounds and experiences. Inclusion is a key value of Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference to create a welcoming, engaging, and safe environment for all.
Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference provides opportunities for youth to discover their passion and purpose. They learn hard work ethic and gain the confidence needed to become leaders among their peers.
Overall, what has your experience been like since being involved with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference?
My experience with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference has been very rewarding. It’s been a pleasure to connect with others in the community and discover opportunities for youth to be involved right in our own town.
Anything else you'd like to share? Maybe something about your favorite experience/memory since being involved with the organization? Perhaps share something that will convey your passion to the reader?
One memory that sticks out in my mind was during a recent Board retreat, we heard from a panel of Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference alumni who shared their experiences. One of the alumni described how as soon as she arrived in her new community where she was attending college, she researched how to get connected with local volunteer opportunities. I was so impressed and inspired! It was at that moment I realized that Hands4Hope has a short window of time before passing the torch of giving back to tomorrow’s leaders – and they will be ready.
