AEO associates share our commitment to doing better, being better and building a better world. We’re proud to spotlight our people who are making a real and lasting impact in their communities.
Florida-based Michael – District Team Leader – and his family spend their weekends giving back to their local community through Boca Helping Hands, a community-based nonprofit that provides food, medical and financial assistance. Michael is sharing what giving back means to him and how connecting with those in his community has helped him gain new perspectives.
Tell us about your volunteer service with Boca Helping Hands.
My family and I volunteer at Boca Helping Hands on Saturday mornings to distribute food to those in need and interact with the many people in our community by lending a helping hand.
Why is volunteering important to you?
Volunteering at Boca Helping Hands is important because it allows me to make a positive impact on my local community. It also provides me with opportunities to gain new skills and build relationships. Additionally, it serves as a way for me to give back and show gratitude for the privileges and resources I have access to.
How many years have you been volunteering there?
My family and I have been volunteering at Boca Helping Hands for seven years now!
How do you think that being an active participant in your community helps to Build a Better World?
Being an active participant in my community promotes a sense of unity and togetherness, allowing many people from the same community to work together towards common goals. This can lead to the development of a more inclusive and supportive community, where everyone feels valued and supported. I hope that my community involvement can serve as an inspiration for others to get involved and take action, creating positive change that can spread beyond local communities and contribute to building a better world.
What are some of the benefits you have found in volunteering? What have you learned?
There are many benefits and learning experiences that I have gained from volunteering. Some of these include personal growth, professional development, social connections, increased empathy and understanding, and a sense of accomplishment.
Volunteering has allowed me to gain valuable experiences that can be applied in other areas of life. It has provided me with the opportunity to develop skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork, which are beneficial in regards to my role as a District Team Leader for the American Eagle brand.
While helping me to grow in character, volunteering has also exposed me to different perspectives and experiences, increasing my empathy and understanding of others with different backgrounds. What I love most about volunteering is that I am able to not only spend time with my family, but am also able to teach my children about the importance of positive community involvement and how our efforts create a meaningful impact on the community.
