When it comes to life at Goldmark, our team members are encouraged to get out in the communities we serve. Every year, each team member can use 16 volunteer hours to do just that.
The impact of using those hours doesn’t just benefit our communities. Partnering with causes that you care about can be just as meaningful for the one dedicating their time. For Lee Pratschner, Regional Manager (Fargo, ND), partnering with the United Way of Cass Clay was the perfect choice.
“For United Way, I act as a School Supply Drive Committee member. I choose to volunteer and give a monetary donation with each paycheck because they don't just give money out; they invest in the community and take a lot of time and care with the recipients to ensure they are making an impact for good,” Lee says.
Each year, United Way hosts a School Supply Drive campaign to help local students get much-needed school supplies before the school year kicks off. For 1 in 4 local families, back-to-school shopping comes with facing difficult financial decisions. To ease pressure on families, the School Supply Drive aims to collect financial donations, school supplies, and volunteer time to set students up for success. This year, over 7,000 backpacks were filled with supplies – a new record.
Goldmark’s 16 hours of volunteer time give team members the opportunity to take that first step. For Lee, those 16 hours grew into a deeper commitment and passion for The United Way’s School Supply Drive, leading him to go beyond showing up and distributing backpacks. As a committee member, he also gets to dive into the logistical side of the campaign.
“I attend planning and debriefing meetings, manage backpack packing shifts, as well as manage and participate in the distribution of backpacks to the kids who need them,” explains Lee.
As important as the logistical side is, Lee’s favorite part of the event is personally handing out backpacks to kids in need.
“Distribution is the best! Getting to see the excitement of kids who get their own backpack, sometimes for the first time ever, is pretty special,” admits Lee.
“Saying to them, 'Have a great school year!' and having them smile ear-to-ear fills my bucket for the whole year.”
Finding something that ignites your passion doesn’t always come instantly. When asked what team members should do if they don’t know how to use their volunteer hours, Lee shared some advice on where to start.
“Ask what other team members do in your office and join them! The best way to get started is to just jump in and get inspired! If you have a cause you are passionate about, share that passion with others and invite them along!”
By taking that first step, you never know what you might find. Like Lee, you may discover what fills your bucket, too.
Interested in learning more about our team or exploring career opportunities in property management? View our current openings!