How long have you been in Austin?
I moved to Austin in 1976 to attend the University of Texas, and for all intents and purposes never really left. I have always had extended family in Austin and I have always loved it here.
How long have you volunteered with iACT?
My first time volunteering with iACT – ( which back then was known as AMM – Austin Metropolitan Ministries) – was in the late 1990s, participating in Hands on Housing with a team from the Church of Scientology.
What made you want to volunteer with iACT?
I found out what this group was doing to bring people of different faiths together to serve side by side, and help the community in a concrete way. I wanted to be part of that and help members of my congregation to be part of that. From there I became involved in other iACT activities and opportunities. Most recently, I have participated in the Red Benchdialogue program and sometimes served as a table host, helping to guide those conversations (and meeting so many interesting people.)
What do you enjoy most about working with iACT?
iACT’s mission is to cultivate peace and respect through interfaith dialogue, service and celebration. – and I appreciate both the goal, and the approach. I love the many ways of getting to know other people, other faith communities, other cultures.
What has been the most challenging part of your volunteer experience?
My most challenging “volunteer” experience, but also the most rewarding, was serving on the iACT Board in the early 2000s. Tackling challenges with others of diverse backgrounds is a great way of really getting to know people, and the communities or traditions they come from.
Why would you encourage others to do similar volunteer work with iACT?
The people are great, the mission is important, the opportunities to serve are abundant.