Highlighting the impact of our team members and their commitment to community.
At Goldmark Property Management, we believe in giving back—and one of the most powerful ways to do that is through our volunteer program. Recently, Jeremy Vrieze, Regional Maintenance Manager, put his volunteer hours to work at Summit Academy. This Minneapolis-based organization equips individuals with education and skills to pursue stable and rewarding careers.
Jeremy volunteered his time by conducting mock interviews with students in Summit Academy’s carpentry program. This helped students build confidence and practice real-world interviewing skills—essential steps on their path to employment. His story is an example of how using your time to help others can also bring personal and professional growth.
Read on for Jeremy’s reflections on the experience and why he encourages others to make use of their volunteer hours.
Q&A with Jeremy Vrieze
Q: What inspired you to use your volunteer hours?
I’ve always believed in the importance of giving back to those who look to create and grow, especially in ways that align with my industry. When the opportunity came up to conduct mock interviews for Summit Academy’s carpentry students, it felt like the perfect way to contribute—helping individuals prepare for real-world opportunities while supporting workforce development in a meaningful way.
Q: How did you choose the organization or initiative you volunteered for?
Summit Academy’s mission really resonated with me. They’re not just providing education; they’re creating pathways to economic stability and breaking cycles of poverty. Their impact—placing over 3,300 students in full-time jobs and advocating for more equitable hiring practices in construction—speaks volumes.
Q: Was this your first time volunteering, or is it something you’ve done before?
I’ve volunteered with Summit Academy before, and it won’t be my last.
Q: Can you describe what you did during your volunteer time?
I conducted mock interviews with students preparing for careers in carpentry. The goal was to provide them with a realistic interview experience, offer constructive feedback, and help build their confidence as they transition into the workforce.
Q: What was the most meaningful or rewarding moment of your experience?
Seeing the students’ confidence grow during the interviews was incredibly rewarding. One student started off nervous but, by the end, was answering questions with clarity and self-assurance. Knowing that I played a small role in that transformation was a great feeling.
Q: Did you interact with anyone during your volunteering who left a lasting impact on you?
One student shared his story of overcoming major life challenges and choosing to pursue a career in carpentry. His resilience and determination were inspiring. It was a reminder of why programs like Summit Academy are so vital.
Q: How did your volunteer work make a difference for the organization or the people you helped?
Providing real-world interview practice is a crucial step in the job placement process. Many students haven’t had much exposure to formal interviews, so giving them the opportunity to practice in a supportive setting helps set them up for success.
Q: What did you learn about the community or initiative you supported?
The barriers to entry in the trades are real, but organizations like Summit Academy are actively working to remove them. Their approach is comprehensive—education, job placement, advocacy—and it’s making a tangible difference.
Q: Did this experience change your perspective on anything?
It reinforced how critical workforce development programs are. There’s a huge need for skilled labor in construction and supporting initiatives that provide training, and opportunity is a win-win for both individuals and the industry.
Q: What would you say to someone who’s hesitant about using their volunteer hours?
You don’t have to move mountains to make an impact. Giving just a few hours of your time can make a real difference in someone’s journey. And honestly, you’ll get just as much (if not more) out of it than you put in.
Q: How did volunteering make you feel personally and professionally?
Personally, it was a great reminder of why I’m passionate about this industry. Professionally, it reinforced the importance of mentorship and investing in the next generation of skilled workers.
Q: Do you plan to use your volunteer hours again? Why or why not?
Absolutely. It’s an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way while strengthening the communities we serve.
Q: If someone isn’t sure where to volunteer, what advice would you give them?
Start with something that aligns with your passions or expertise. Whether it’s mentoring, hands-on work, or advocacy, there’s always a way to make an impact.
About Summit Academy
Summit Academy’s mission is to empower individuals to develop their ability to earn and become contributing citizens in their communities, as well as economic drivers of the State of Minnesota. Their holistic programs focus on education, workforce development, and advocacy—especially in the construction and healthcare sectors.
