Mandy McMichen, Attention Homes Volunteer of the Month
If you follow this blog, you know that as an organization we take community outreach and volunteerism pretty seriously. It’s integrated into our culture, our day-to-day job responsibilities, and even our personal annual objectives. And as part of those efforts, everyone is also encouraged to match the volunteer hours they give on company time, with the same amount of volunteer hours on personal time outside of work. It’s more of a recommendation than anything; there’s no policy that requires the time match. But you’d probably be surprised to see how many people actually meet that match.
There’s definitely no shortage of stories worth sharing in that regard, but one in particular stood out this month, as WhiteWave employee Mandy McMichen was recognized as Volunteer of the Month by Attention Homes, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving at-risk youth in the area.
According to Attention Homes, “Mandy always looks for something to do and someone to help. No stone is unturned and certainly no cooking pot left unfilled!”
Mandy shared her thoughts on her experiences in the Attention Homes newsletter, check ‘em out below, and congrats to Mandy!
AH: Why do you donate your time and efforts to Attention Homes?
MM: I work at WhiteWave Foods. Our President Blaine McPeak, recently implemented “Impact Day”, a day that our offices close after lunch and employees are sent out into the community to volunteer. He asks each employee to match those volunteer hours with personal time to really make an “impact” in our community. I loved the idea, but had no idea where I would volunteer my time. I learned that WhiteWave sponsors Attention Homes’ Kaleidoscope event and after reading more about it online, I knew it was just what I was looking for.
AH: How does your donation affect you and your life?
MM: Cooking healthy food for Attention Homes’ kids is such fun! They seem to really enjoy the food and often come in to chat or help me. I am becoming a familiar face around the house. I enjoy both listening and talking with the kids – I can’t tell you how good that makes me feel! Attention Homes is such an amazing organization. I am so proud to be a part of it. I’m doubly blessed to have the opportunity to work for a company like WhiteWave Foods that encourages all of us to give more of ourselves to our communities!
mail- fb
- tw