Talk to us about being on the Campaign Cabinet. What motivated you to want to get involved?
I am so excited to participate in the Campaign Cabinet efforts. United Way has always inspired me to remember that the needs of others exist all around us in nearly every situation we encounter. I see this specific effort providing another opportunity, emerging me even further into regularly shifting my focus from “me” to “we” as I go through each day. Living in a community demands interacting with the people around me and making a conscious decision to leave this world better off than I found it. That requires moving from talking about “it” to intentionally acting upon opportunities where many, and not just the few, can join in and participate. At the end of the day, it is not what I have, rather it is about lifting others up toward accomplishments, and motivating them to make things better.
There are so many ways to give back and be involved with charitable organizations. Why do you choose United Way of Treasure Valley?
Reaching back to my first introduction (30 years ago) and subsequent involvement, I have seen first-hand the resources and collaborative partnerships that United Way brings to our most vulnerable community members. I am all in to help such a great organization focused on community impact that directly affects “everybody”, like our friends, family, and neighbors where we all work and live. Great organization and a great group of passionate people who work there, striving to make a difference.
Tell us a little about your role with your organization and what you do!
I have spent over 20 years, currently as the Idaho retail hub manager for First Interstate Bank where I have the privilege to direct the day-to-day activities within the communities for the seventeen branch locations here in Southern Idaho. Commitment to community is at the core of who we are as a company and we are dedicated to being there for our neighbors. I get to serve our communities with financial resources, playing a vital role in aligning and supporting team members and clients. Like United Way works to impact lives through education, health, and financial stability, I find myself naturally drawn to join my experience and skillset with the campaign cabinet team. Working through various roles in the financial sector has allowed me to clearly see the many facets of our industry and how decisions impact people every single day.
What are you doing when you’re not working your tail off at your place of employment or for United Way of Treasure Valley?
I wish that free time existed. If others have mastered, then, congratulations are in order. I have found my focus just shifts to new things when one goes away. For me, my time has transitioned since my two adult children have left the nest. My wife and I enjoy our time with our grandchildren and would not have it any other way to use up “all” our free time with them. Too, we enjoy traveling and are anxiously awaiting to shore up a few bucket-list vacations as recent events have prevented our willingness to start opening back up to more far-reaching destinations. My church family is particularly important to me and a great deal of my additional “free time” is spent helping when and where possible to serve those around me.