Suzanne Hall, Assistant Treasurer, was recently honored by Carthage Area United Way (CAUW) with the Spirit of Giving Award. This award is given to someone who exemplifies the best that United Way has to offer, whose efforts have advanced the mission of CAUW, and, most importantly, made it possible to better serve the needs of the community.
Suzanne has served on the Board of Directors of CAUW for the past seven years and as the Leggett & Platt United Way Corporate representative for the past eight years.
“Suzanne’s commitment to the Spirit of Giving is truly inspiring,” said Barbara Wright, Executive Director of CAUW. “She selflessly dedicates countless hours to our organization. Her passion for ensuring the community understands the benefits of CAUW is unmatched. She is a force to be reckoned with, and her dedication is truly admirable.”
We asked Suzanne to share about the importance of volunteering and advice on how to begin volunteering.
Why is volunteering important, especially at the United Way?
It’s not about the size of the contribution but the collective impact we can make. United Way offers a unique opportunity for individuals to give what they can, whether it’s a financial contribution, their time, or their talents. These contributions, no matter the size, can significantly benefit local non-profit agencies and the community.
God has blessed me tenfold, so I believe it is my duty to give back to my community. Being a volunteer, no matter in what capacity, gives me a sense of purpose. When you give to something you believe in, you receive many more blessings than you give. I think about those individuals served by local non-profits who have made choices that changed the trajectory of their lives. Knowing that people want to change makes me want to help them overcome their challenges. That is why I encourage others to find an opportunity to volunteer in their community.
For someone at L&P looking to get more involved in the community, where should they start?
Think about what you are passionate about. I feel a pull toward helping any organization serving abused and neglected children or helping men or women through development opportunities. Look online for those organizations that you believe in. You could start by ringing the bell for the Salvation Army, helping with a coat drive for your local school, or even forming a group within your branch to help serve a local food shelter with a canned goods drive. Donate your time at the Boys and Girls Club by being a tutor or teaching a dance class. Look for the needs in your community, and that will help you find your passion to give back. Remember, even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference.
In her spare time, Suzanne also volunteers for other organizations and programs in her community and at work. She’s the Board President of Jasper County CASA, a local non-profit that finds court-appointed advocates for foster children. One a month, she helps at her church’s local food program for low-income families. She’s a part of the Women’s Employee Resource Group Leadership team at L&P and contributes to her local Chamber of Commerce by helping with monthly Women’s events.
Thank you, Suzanne, for your generous service to our community and living out our value of putting people first!