It is National Volunteer Week! Volunteers are vital to what we do. We celebrate the power of volunteerism and express our deepest gratitude to every individual who has generously given their time, talents, and resources to support our cause.
Help us recognize just a few of the volunteers committed to helping United Way of Norman build a stronger community. We'll add a new volunteer each day April 22-25.
How have you volunteered for United Way of Norman?
My relationship with the United Way of Norman began way back around 2002 when I was employed by Arvest Bank. That’s when I first started to learn about their mission and the impact they have on our community. I was fascinated by the number of partner agencies and all the programs funded by the United Way, and that is why I have spent over 20 years supporting this wonderful organization!
Around 2017, I started volunteering on the Celebrity Sing fundraising event committee, and I fell in love with this epic event and the committee members behind it! Last year was the first year that I chaired the event, and I am set to do so again this year. Trust me, if you have not been to this spectacular event, you will NOT want to miss it this year!
What other ways do you volunteer?
Currently I volunteer with the ARIA Gives Back program through my employer ARIA Real Estate Group. We believe giving back is the truest form of success. As employees of ARIA, having a program that allows us to give of our time and/or money to support local nonprofits organizations is really special!
Why is volunteering important to you?
Volunteering is important to me for various reasons. It helps not only make our community a better place, but it allows us all the opportunity to connect with various organizations and support their missions to help those in need. The smallest task can make a real difference in the lives of so many people. Our community is full of really amazing people and what better way to get to know them than through volunteering!
Having raised three (now grown) kids of my own here in Norman, I wanted to make sure they saw me support, help and volunteer. It was important for them to not just hear me talk about it, but to actually see me putting in the good work and giving my time to a greater cause. One of my sons was actually matched with a Big Brother through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program when he was in second grade, and they stayed matched until fifth grade, It was the biggest blessing! The gratitude I have is beyond words for that program and the individuals who choose to volunteer!
I would encourage all parents to engage with our community and step up and volunteer. If you can’t give financially, giving of your time is just as important as you never know who is being blessed by your volunteering like my family was.
How have you volunteered for United Way of Norman?
I currently volunteer as the 2024 Campaign Chairperson. In the past, I have served as the campaign coordinator for my company, and I have volunteered for various United Way fundraising activities.
What other ways do you volunteer?
I currently serve as the President of the Moore Norman Technology Center Foundation, and as a member of the Advisory Board for the Norman YMCA. I also volunteer at Summit Church. In the past I have served as a Board member for Bethesda, Inc., Norman Rotary Club, and the Norman Chamber of Commerce. Also, my family spent two years serving in international mission work in Uganda and serving as a Bridge (Foster) Family for OKDHS for three years. I also participate in various fundraising activities for non-profit and civic organizations across Norman and OKC.
Why is volunteering important to you?
Life gets to be boring and self-centered if you only strive to get more stuff. My dad used to tell me that if you are having a bad day, go help someone, and so that is what I try to do. Volunteering and giving gives purpose to what a person does. I also really enjoy the comradery that is gained by volunteering with others that have similar goals of supporting the community.
How have you volunteered for United Way of Norman?
I have volunteered with United Way of Norman during Day of Caring. I have been in almost every position of the committee and really enjoy seeing the transformations made in a single day.
What other ways do you volunteer?
I volunteer with Fostering Futures by helping with Luggage with Love. We deliver bags to children placed into foster care with relatives in an emergency situation. This helps lighten the load of the foster parents as they navigate settling in with the new additions. I also volunteer with Norman Music Fest as the VIP Chair. I am currently volunteering with the City of Norman in helping form the 2040 Master Plan.
Why is volunteering important to you?
When I got engaged to a Normanite, I knew I wanted to plug into my community because I would raise children here. I wanted to know who was in my community and how decisions are made. This made me join various organizations and take on some leadership roles. I have met so many people from all walks of life and the stories I get to hear as well as the lessons I learn continue to make me better in all aspects of my life. There are times where I do not want to get up and go to a worksite or a meeting however, each time I leave there was a reward that came and it gives me the energy to do it again. I know that without volunteers many things cannot get done and I am happy to help when I can.
How have you volunteered for United Way of Norman?
I have had the pleasure of being a member of the Health Independence Impact Council since 2018, where I have had the opportunity to serve as both Chair and Vice Chair. Over the past three years, I have represented the Board for the Health Impact Council, which includes three sub-committees. Additionally, I am proud to be a part of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program allocation committee. One program that I am particularly fond of within United Way of Norman is The Launch. As a judge for this program, I get to see all the creative ideas that participants come up with to meet a specific need in our community. In 2023, I had the privilege of presenting ARPA funding recommendations to the Norman City Council, an experience that I was incredibly honored to be a part of.
What other ways do you volunteer?
My daughter and I are proud members of tribal nations and it's really important to us to stay connected to our heritage. That's why I'm so happy to be a part of the Native American Education Committee for Moore Public Schools. We work to promote academic achievement, improved attendance and graduation rates as well as cultural education to Native American students, and it's something I'm very proud of.
Why is volunteering important to you?
I find volunteering to be really valuable because it allows me to see things from a different point of view. It goes beyond just giving back to the community - it's about forming connections with incredible organizations that are truly making a positive impact. Before I started volunteering, I had no idea about the amazing non-profit agencies in our area that are dedicated to improving education, health, and financial security. We all experience times of need or know someone who does, and volunteering helps me identify those needs and connect with the right resources. It's such a rewarding experience!