Why do you volunteer—why is it important to you?
I volunteer because I believe that even small acts of kindness by each person add up to a big impact overall. When I first started volunteering, I was introduced to the quote from Mahatma Ghandi: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” There is much about the world I would like to see changed. I have realized that I can perform whatever actions I am able to try to work for the change I desire—and along with all the others working for change, we will make an impact together.
Name an organization(s) you volunteer for regularly? How were you introduced to that organization(s)?
Most recently my regular volunteering was with BSA – Cub Scout Pack 8150 on Travis AFB in CA because my son was a member, and I became the Leader of his Den and a member of their board. I try to have at least one opportunity that I am committed to at all times—over the years it has included in my child’s classroom weekly, at a thrift store, and at a community space for people who are not housed.
Which cause(s) you are you passionate about supporting and why?
I am most passionate about causes that support people. I am also very passionate about animals and the environment; however, I try to support those causes in other ways. My volunteer hours are typically dedicated to serving people.
How has our culture of doing good at Deckers impacted your involvement in volunteering?
Before I worked at Deckers, I said my dream job was to be a volunteer. If I didn’t have to be concerned about paying bills, then I could volunteer my time every day and be fulfilled by giving to others. Deckers’ culture of doing good has allowed me to do what I never thought I would be able to do in a business job, which is to encourage and support volunteering regularly. I am so proud of being cheered on by employer to take time to help and serve others. It is one of the many things I love about working at Deckers.
What are some of your favorite volunteer activities?
Thanks to the time that was supported and allowed during Deckers’ Art of Kindness, I was able to participate in a few new activities outside of my regulars, which were donating blood and volunteering at the Food Bank.
My most recent commitment is to the Veteran’s Employee Resource Group (VERG) at Deckers. I am so excited to being working alongside some amazing teammates to try to support those in our community who are veterans, spouses of military members, or care about service members.
Share a memory of your first service/volunteering experience.
This is not from my first volunteering experience; however, it is my most significant experience. After college and working one year in corporate banking, I decided to take a year off and volunteer with Americorps. I ended up serving at a shelter for people who were unhoused in Alamosa, Colorado. There are so many things that came out of that experience but more than anything gratitude and gratefulness for the privilege I have had in my life that has protected me from being unhoused, awareness that many just like me have ended up in that situation and to not to take my situation for granted, and certainty that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.
Has anyone in your life influenced you to prioritize giving back through volunteering?
My Christian faith is what originally started me on the path of volunteering where I set out with the desire to treat everyone, especially those that are the most oppressed in society, like Jesus treated people and to love everyone unconditionally. Over my years of volunteerism, I have been inspired by all the people with whom I have crossed paths that give of themselves fully and freely in so many different ways.
How do you feel after volunteering?
I think the quote “For it is in giving that we receive” from St. Francis of Assisi describes how I feel after volunteering. I went into volunteering thinking that I was helping people and it was a one-way deal. What I learned is that it’s actually very reciprocal, or in fact, I may be getting more out of it than the people I am serving. It fills my cup, it makes me feel more connected to other people, and it grounds me.
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