Title: Internal Audit Manager, Finance
Years with Rich’s: Two and a half
Location: Rich’s World Headquarters, Buffalo, New York
Favorite Rich’s product: Farm Rich Breaded Mozzarella Sticks
Why did you first decide to become a volunteer or otherwise get involved in community service? I decided to become a volunteer when I realized I can make a difference. I feel it’s important to help those who are less fortunate, especially where you live. Volunteering a few hours a month can have a huge impact on someone in our community.
What generally has been the nature of your volunteer contributions and commitment to “Bettering Your Community”? I volunteer with two different organizations: the Food Bank of Western New York and Second Chance Sheltering Network Inc. Currently, I sit on the board of directors and act as the assistant treasurer for the Food Bank and I volunteer at the organization’s fundraising events, such as Walk Off Hunger. I also volunteer my time with Second Chance Sheltering Network, which is a local all-volunteer, no-kill animal shelter. You may be familiar with this organization if you have ever adopted a kitten or cat from a local PetSmart store. I clean out the cat cages and socialize with the animals while they are awaiting adoption.
How has being a Rich’s associate influenced or contributed to the success of your volunteer activities? Rich’s has been both a tremendous influencer and a supporter of my volunteer endeavors. The company value that says we will “Better Our Communities” has motivated me to give back to my community any way I can. The support I receive directly from Rich’s, along with the flexibility we’re given for these activities, has allowed me to make time in my schedule to get involved.
What advice or message would you share with others to encourage them to get more involved in community service? I would urge others to become more involved because it is important to make the places where we live better. You may not think that volunteering a few hours a month will make a difference, but to someone or something, it could have an impact that will last a lifetime.
