Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, I was always concerned about the world around me. I learned from my parents at a very young age the importance of giving back to your community, getting involved to make the world a better place, and helping those who are less fortunate.

I remember as a child going door-to-door in my neighborhood collecting money for the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy telethon. I recruited my sister, who wasn’t as outgoing, to go with me.  As long as I did the talking and asking, she would join me!

It’s ironic that many years later, I find myself coordinating FedEx volunteer efforts in the Bay Area. Over the years, Bay Area FedEx employees have volunteered their time at many different non-profit agencies like  the Alameda County Food Bank, Salvation Army, San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club.

Our Bay Area United Way campaign has been successful over the past 10 years because we have found ways to get our employees involved in their local communities, even before FedEx Cares Week began.  I believe there is a direct correlation between seeing  the needs in the community first-hand, and feeling compelled to make a difference.

For me, it is rewarding to know I have contributed in some small way to make the world a better place.