Volunteer Spotlight - Mike Giordano

Behind every act of community service, there is a passionate volunteer committed to improving his or her community. United Way values its dedicated volunteers who continue to make a difference in the lives of others thanks to the kindness within their hearts. Mike Giordano is an exemplification of a committed volunteer.

Mike is about to begin his 18th year as a volunteer for the Hudson Valley CA$H Coalition and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. Mike currently volunteers at two locations, one in Fishkill and the other in Hopewell Junction as an instructor and counselor. While Mike first began volunteering to occupy himself during retirement, his experience became much more than a way to fill time. He has returned as a volunteer for nearly two decades because of his continued commitment to the change he is creating. The visible benefit to the local community is reason enough for Mike to donate his time year after year.

The goals of the program, according to Mike, are to “satisfy the clients and make sure we do a good job for them. We’re there to help.” While the goals are simple, the benefits are plentiful. Mike’s favorite part about volunteering is admittedly selfish: “It’s the satisfaction you get from helping someone. The people are just so grateful that we’re able to do this for them, and it’s very rewarding.”

In addition to the personal rewards gained from volunteering, Mike also emphasized the benefit of this program to the community. Mike believes the program’s most impactful aspect is “the fact that the service is there” to provide help to anyone who needs it. Coupled with the sense of personal satisfaction comes the knowledge that “you are helping the community. You’re offering a service that’s definitely needed.”

Moreover, yet another benefit from this program is the spirit that exists among the fellow volunteers. Through his extensive experience, Mike has observed a definite sense of teamwork: “If someone has a question, we’re all available to try and answer it. There is a camaraderie. We’re doing something that’s useful for the community and we all help each other, and we feel good about it.”

Mike advised anyone considering this volunteer opportunity to simply give it a try to determine if it is a good fit. While this volunteer experience certainly doesn’t have to be forever, Mike is certain that anyone willing to donate their time to this program will walk away feeling changed for the better, just like Mike 18 years ago.

For more information on the Hudson Valley CA$H Coalition and volunteer opportunities, go to www.hv-cash.org

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