What was your experience working on a Taproot Foundation project?

I completed an Annual Report project for Art Resources in Teaching (ART), and I’m currently working on a brochure for WorkforceChicago, an initiative of the Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL). Through my Taproot Foundation projects, I have been exposed to some incredible nonprofit clients and their staff, which were extremely appreciative of the work we provided. This experience gave me a great sense of giving back and making a difference.

How have you grown from your pro bono experience?

Working in finance and operations, I have limited exposure to marketing and creative opportunities. The Taproot Foundation projects have given me an outlet to develop these skill sets while allowing me to expand my professional network. Personally, working with the nonprofit clients provides me a unique sense of accomplishment that is difficult to achieve in my day job. There are limited opportunities in my professional career to match the satisfaction I got from delivering the printed annual report to the nonprofit client.

What surprised you about the Taproot Foundation project?

My biggest surprise was the extent of talent and diverse backgrounds of the team members. Each person provides an interesting view on the project, which makes for a great dynamic that tremendously benefits the nonprofit client. With the immense talent of our team, our biggest challenge was working within the project scope. We all wish we could have done more for the client, but we realized that our success hinged on our ability to maintain our original scope and deliver our finished product on time.

How do you think the business community and nonprofit sector can strengthen one another?

Working in tandem, the two groups can really strengthen a community. Both my projects have reinforced this view. The Taproot Foundation teams, through these well-focused projects, fill a resource void for the nonprofit clients. In turn, our clients inspire us and make us feel great about putting our skills to work!

What community issues are most important to you and what did you learn from the project?

Providing education to all individuals in a community, be it students or adults, is a fundamental pillar of a healthy community. My annual report project was for an organization that brought art resources into classrooms to expand students’ exposure to the arts. My brochure project is for an organization that is looking to develop continued learning opportunities for working professionals. My experiences with Taproot Foundation continue to show me that improving education is at the forefront of many organizations, which reinforces my passion for education.

Other than volunteering with the Taproot Foundation, what do you like to do in your free time?

Golfing, traveling, reading, and relaxing.