A history of service

Supporting a greater community purpose means something to me.

After college, I participated in AmeriCorps as a VISTA (Volunteer in Service to America) while living in New England. I supported United Way efforts and non-profit community investment.

My hometown of Roanoke called me back following my AmeriCorps experience. I also wanted to be part of community efforts where I lived. That’s why I asked to join Family Service’s board in 2013. Gratefully, I was invited to do so. I am now serving my final year of two three-year terms.

At that time, I worked at Downtown Roanoke, Inc. Another leader in the non-profit world introduced me to the important work Family Service of Roanoke Valley does. I learned of its great history, and the needs it meets in our community.

What does mental health mean to me?

Now I work as Senior Associate in Commercial Real Estate Brokerage with Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer.

As a commercial real estate broker, I see everyday that healthy communities are built on security, family health, and investment into our neighbors and neighborhoods.

Family Service provides vital services to the most vulnerable of our community – children, the elderly, families, and those who are struggling from the difficulties life can bring. It is important to me, and to the health of the community generally, that we support these necessary services. We are providing hope and a chance of an optimistic future to those in need in our neighborhoods and city.

Mental health plays a vital role in leading a healthy and hopeful life, but also in the fabric of a healthy community. By serving on our board, I get to hear and learn from those working in the field and others providing critical services in our community.

I hope to see more and more people becoming aware of Family Service – those in need and those who wish to support the mission. There are many people in need who may not know about the services provided. Others invested in this community seek to align with an important mission like ours.

As with my AmeriCorps service, I will be forever grateful for the experience I’ve had as a board member for Family Service and any small impact I may have had.