Volunteers help make programming possible

September 9, 2016 | Building Efficiency, Eliminating Waste Kay Neumann-Thomas, Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation, kthomas@iowaabiorg

From industry advisors at Business Horizons to members of our various boards, volunteers play a critical role in the success of the ABI Foundation.

These individuals contribute hundreds of hours each year to help educate the future civic and business leaders of our state.

But it’s not all work, and it’s not just the participants who benefit. Ask anyone who has attended these programs as a volunteer and they will tell you that even the volunteers walk away from these experiences enriched.

There are growth opportunities, not only for those participating in ABI Foundation programs, but for those helping to produce the programs.

Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers who help ensure ABI Foundation programming is successful year after year.

Are you interested in taking a more active role in the Foundation?

Here are four ways to get involved:

BUSINESS HORIZONS: This weeklong business program for high school students is powered by volunteers. Our industry advisers guide their student groups throughout the week and have the greatest amount of interaction with our participants. Professionals in banking, finance, human resources and marketing are needed to serve as judges who provide valuable feedback.

LEADERSHIP IOWA UNIVERSITY: Each Leadership Iowa University student is paired with a business professional in their field of interest. This is a great opportunity to help mentor and mold Iowa’s future leaders.

REPRESENT THE FOUNDATION AT ABI EVENTS: Events such as the ABI Executive Open are important fundraising opportunities for the foundation. Volunteers serve as the face of the organization and help generate financial support while interacting with ABI members.

TELL OTHERS ABOUT FOUNDATION PROGRAMMING: One of the most important things you can do is help spread the word about the great opportunities available to Iowans, whether they are high school students or established in their careers. Talk about the valuable experiences you, your children and your employees have had participating in Leadership Iowa, Leadership Iowa University and Business Horizons so others can get involved, too!

Contact Kay Neumann-Thomsa at kthomas@iowaabi.org or 515-235-0564.