This is a guest post from a Program Investment Volunteer who evaluated programs in the Income Stability focus area. You can see all strategies in Income Stability by clicking here.
Q: How long have you been a volunteer with CAUW and how did you get started?
A: I have been engaged with the volunteer process since 2013 after relocating from Houston back home to Louisiana. I was highly involved with a large non-profit while in Houston which was directly linked the United Way of Greater Houston.
Q: Why did you want to give your time to help with this process?
A: Growing up without ever meeting my father, I am aware of the social, mental, and physical challenges that can be encountered in life. With this in mind, I have always realized the value of the myriad community services which can provide tremendous value not only to people similar to my background, but also to people who have experienced different obstacles in life.
Q: Which focus area do you evaluate?
A: Income stability.
Q: How will the community be better off because of the volunteers’ work in this process?
A: The volunteers are providing both qualitative and quantitative reviews of area non-profits to ensure each organization is maximizing the value it provides to each individual (client) in an efficient manner. This approach is closely aligned with our business community which strengthens corporate relationships and bolsters credibility. The recent floods of August 2016 are a perfect example.
Q: What is the number one thing you want the community to know about this process?
A: The process creates active engagement between our local volunteers and our community. This active engagement fosters trust among multiple levels and will create a perpetual source of connection for those who can provide resources with those who may need resources. Although the process by nature is time consuming, it is highly rewarding to observe those in the community benefit by our volunteers’ active engagement.
