Throughout my life, I have tenaciously sought out volunteer opportunities to make a

positive contribution to the community and to society at large. Consistent with this

commitment, I am seeking a board position with Social Service, whose mission inspires

me, and for whom I hope to make a lasting difference.

Years ago, as a young woman, living in Roosevelt Island between two municipal

hospitals, I was inspired to return to school to become an occupational therapist. In this

position, I centered my work on helping people with emotional and mental challenges

and got great satisfaction working with clients both one-on-one and in small groups.

Later in my career, I supervised volunteers working with residents in an assisted living

facility.

My commitment to serving others later expanded beyond my career, becoming central

into my retirement. I had the good fortune of meeting Burt Freeman 20 years ago. His

vision for My Own Books caught my attention and I became his first volunteer, along

with my husband. The growth of this organization, which began with three volunteers

and expanded to My Own Books serving children and schools in every Borough, has

been rewarding and empowering. I was thrilled when My Own Books became part of the

Social Service Board.

I have been a member of Ethical Culture for more than 30 years. My association with

Ethical has allowed me to meet with like-minded people and expand my knowledge of

the world, of social issues, and of volunteerism. In the 1990’s, I was a Society Board

member for six years, volunteering for the Supervised Visitation Program every week,

another great experience.

Becoming a member of the Social Service Board would allow me the opportunity to

continue to focus on direct, practical, social impact services to build relationships that

bring out the best in myself and others and, at the same time, to help our neighborhood,

our community, and our city.