President and CEO
HandsOn Jacksonville Inc.
(formerly Volunteer Jacksonville Inc.)
Mission
We inspire, equip and mobilize people to take action that changes the world. Our vision is that one day, every person will discover his or her power to make a difference, creating healthy communities in vibrant democracies around the world.
Serving Jacksonville
Incorporated in 1973. We are Jacksonville-based, but we are a part of the HandsOn Network of the Points of Light Institute.
Those served
We provide services to the five-county area of Northeast Florida.
Biggest challenge
My biggest challenge is annually cobbling together the revenue budget, which is particularly challenging in these times.
Biggest satisfaction
My greatest satisfaction is leading a team of amazingly committed people who love what they do, who believe in what the organization does, who are willing to work hard to advance our purposes, and who sincerely care about each other and our volunteers. Along with this certainly goes the satisfaction of creating, maintaining and tweaking the organizational culture, which is always the responsibility of the organizational leader.
Hometown
Waupaca, Wis.
First experience with community service
My first conscious recollection of community service was found in the service-centered activities of the Brownies and Girl Scouts. Additionally, I was exposed to volunteer service through the summer activities of both of my parents, who were teachers. Dad also served as a volunteer firefighter in our small-town community.
Your job before HandsOn Jacksonville
I preceded service to my community with 21 years of service to my country as a U.S. Navy officer. My final duty stations were in Mayport and Jacksonville, where I learned to love our community.
Upcoming events
Oct. 9: The Human Race. Our Fall Human Race will take place at the St. Johns Town Center. Anyone can run or walk just for fun or you can connect with one of our nonprofit organizations to help them raise money for their great causes. It’s a fun way to make a difference.
Dec. 3: A Visit from St. Nicholas. We will deliver toys, books and back sacks to about 5,500 children in 10 of our most challenged elementary schools. Hundreds of volunteers will read in classrooms, emphasizing the values of kindness and sharing; and a visit from St. Nick dressed in green and white will make the morning extra special for all. You can help us.
Contact information www.handsonjacksonville.org