Organization: Lake Metonga Association, Pulaski FFA Alumni Association, local Homebuilders Associations and more
Volunteer Service: Since 2000
How did you get involved with these nonprofits?
I grew up with nature and spent a lot of time with my family at our cabin on Lake Metonga. I volunteer to make sure the lake waters remain enjoyable for years to come so my children and future generations can create the same memories. My daughter also has an interest in the environment and agriculture, so I support her passions.
I got involved with the homebuilders association as a great way to create and maintain business relationships in my community.
In what ways do you volunteer?
With the Lake Metonga Association, Loon Watch and Citizen Lake Monitoring Network, our activities revolve around the care, monitoring and reporting of our lake and lake life. The data on lake health and loon migration is shared with the DNR, which then works with fisheries, biologists, wildlife officials and more to compare data across the nation.
My work with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Alumni and TriCounty 4H revolves around agriculture and bringing awareness and opportunities to the community. We assist with programming in the middle and high schools to provide learning and leadership opportunities for local kids. I have served on the board and on committees for the Brown County and Wisconsin Homebuilders Associations and, because my daughters are in Girl Scouts, I have served as a troop assistant and cookie mom for our local troop.
What drives your volunteer commitment with these organizations?
My passion for the causes spurs my involvement. It helps when I can do the activities with my family, allowing us to spend time together and help others at the same time. I get to see my daughters learn and grow as they take more of a leadership role in our activities.
What is the most rewarding part of volunteering?
I see rewards in each activity I do. On the environmental front, the most important thing for me is making sure our natural resources continue so future generations can enjoy the same quality of life. Hearing the loons and lake life at our cabin is a sign that the lake is doing well and our hard work is making an impact. With my youth programs, it’s rewarding to see the kids overcome obstacles. Their struggles and successes help them come out of their shell, develop as a person and gain confidence. On the homebuilder’s side, it’s rewarding to have discussions and impact activities that facilitate positive change in my community.
What is a favorite memory from your volunteer involvement?
Through my volunteerism, I have watched my daughters grow up with an increased interest in the community and environmental causes. My oldest daughter is currently studying fisheries biology at UW-Stevens Point because of her experiences on the lake, and I can already see my younger daughter forming interest in similar hobbies. It makes me proud to see them find their paths and show passion for what they do.
Why is it important to give back to the communities we serve?
We have all learned important lessons through our life experience that we can share with others. Our youth, especially, can benefit from our advice to develop and become a better version of themselves every day, which in turn makes the community better for all of us.
How can other colleagues volunteer for environmental causes?
It could be as simple as picking up garbage at a park, planting trees with arbor associations, or keeping an eye out for invasive species while you’re on the water. There are many organizations out there looking for help. If you’re interested, just reach out to your local DNR or association to find out how you can help.
What advice would you give other colleagues looking to start volunteering?
Your volunteer work doesn’t have to be a very big time commitment. Many organizations need help for little things, like addressing envelopes, compiling a newsletter or forwarding information to contacts. No matter the amount of time you have to give, every little bit helps make that nonprofit and our communities successful.