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Committed to Community: Giving Back & Making an Impact
Over the past decade, I have dedicated my time and resources to making a meaningful difference, particularly in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. I played a pivotal role in marketing, branding, and economic growth in this thriving retirement community.
I have donated over $100,000 in in-kind services and financial contributions to charitable organizations and nonprofits in and around Hot Springs Village. My passion for helping others is evident in the causes I support, from seniors and local businesses to nonprofits and ocean conservation efforts.
My impact extends beyond financial contributions—I actively participate in initiatives that empower people, drive awareness, and create opportunities for growth.
Helping Seniors in Hot Springs Village:
- Led workshops and training sessions on social media, marketing, website management, and branding to help seniors adapt their businesses to the digital age, launch second careers, or find meaningful volunteer work in retirement.
- Guided retirees in navigating modern technology, enabling them to stay connected and competitive in today’s fast-paced world.
- Served as a mentor, helping seniors turn passion projects into profitable ventures or impactful community initiatives.
A First Responder’s Advocate
My unwavering support for first responders stems from one of the most life-altering moments in modern history: September 11, 2001.
September 11, 2001: Firsthand Experience
On September 11, 2001, I was on a bus from NYC to Hoboken for a client meeting when the first plane hit the World Trade Center. I saw the first plane hit, then the second plane strike the towers through the bus window—an event that would change the world forever.
- Emergency protocols halted the bus, leaving me and others stranded.
- I walked through the streets, reaching my client's business, where we cried together as we watched the tragedy unfold on TV.
- Unable to return to the city, I sat by the riverside in Hoboken, watching the buildings collapse. Police and paramedics waited for survivors to arrive by ferry—but none came.
- I bought a portable radio to stay informed and shared it with nearby first responders and civilians.
The Next Morning: A City in Shock
- When trains reopened around 3 AM, I walked 40 blocks through an empty New York City the following day, surrounded only by armed soldiers and military tanks.
- I immediately volunteered to help feed first responders, who were working tirelessly overnight. Their gratitude was overwhelming. First responders cried when handed a simple sandwich—many hadn’t eaten in hours. They expressed their shock and appreciation:
“For me?”
“Wow, thank you so much.”
They hugged us. We hugged them back. We gave them love.
This experience solidified my lifelong commitment to supporting first responders.
Ongoing Support for First Responders
Since then, I have continued to actively support fire, police, and emergency response teams in my community:
- HSV Fire Department: I managed the "Alarm the Village" program, distributing and installing smoke alarms for residents.
- Jessieville & Fountain Lake Volunteer Fire Departments: I organized a chili cook-off fundraiser to support the local fire departments.
- Local Fire & Police Departments: I provide ongoing donations whenever possible to ensure first responders have the resources they need.