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ALEXANDER AND PARKER
You might expect to find elders enjoying their twilight years or young professionals looking to network at a United Way Suncoast philanthropic engagement project in our Lakewood Ranch office.
However, you might not look for two aspiring Lakewood Ranch Preparatory juniors among the group of volunteers putting together needed kits for community members. Yet Parker Simeone and Alexander Hamilton often take time to step up for our organization, and that makes them our Volunteers of the Month for February.
For three years, Parker and Alexander have volunteered at various projects, and they continue to return to help because they find the work fulfilling.
“Making a difference in my community has definitely been a motivation for me,” Parker said. "Working together makes the process fun.”
Added Alexander: “I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much my time volunteering is appreciated and the significant impact it has on people in need. It’s a great feeling to know that my efforts are making a difference.”
The pair of friends have engaged in building a variety of kit builds, including composing bilingual literacy kits, disaster preparedness kits, hygiene kits and perfect attendance kits. The gathering of related items supports seniors as well as students from our ALICE families.
The two know the work will strengthen their college entrance applications, but they also put true heart into their efforts.
“Volunteering has taught me the importance of teamwork and organizational skills,” Alexander said. “I’ve learned firsthand how collaboration can impact the speed and effectiveness of the outcome.”
Parker said building connections with other volunteers and United Way Suncoast representatives has been an unexpected benefit of the engagements.
“They have been encouraging, kind, and have inspired me not just with volunteering, but also in thinking about my future,” Parker said. “Volunteering has given me insight into the needs of others. Through community-based approaches, I have been able to help meet those needs.”
For devoting steadfast diligence to various United Way Suncoast efforts, we’ll feature Parker and Alexander in various promotions this month, and they will each receive gift cards to dine at Glory Days Grill.
That’s one reward they will receive, but that’s far from why they continue to find time to serve.
“There’s always time to volunteer,” Alexander said. “United Way Suncoast offers a variety of opportunities, whether you choose to volunteer on-site or from the comfort of your home."
“Everyone can contribute in some way, no matter their schedule or skill level.”
Added Parker: “When you work in person with a group, no special skills are necessary except a positive attitude and a willingness to work. They are there to explain what you will be working on and help you along the way.”
PREVIOUS VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH:
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