Michelle's Bio
What is your current role at United Way of Reno County, and what are your primary responsibilities?
I serve as the Administrative Assistant at United Way of Reno County, where I provide support to the office in various capacities. My responsibilities include answering phones, processing packets, and assisting the Accounting Manager with tasks. Essentially, I help ensure that the office runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing the team to focus on the mission and initiatives that support the community.
What previous work experiences have shaped your career, and how did they lead you to United Way?
Before joining United Way, I worked in construction management and transportation, fields that taught me the importance of organization, attention to detail, and teamwork. These experiences honed my problem-solving skills and my ability to adapt to new environments. While this is my first venture into the nonprofit sector, my background has given me a strong foundation in logistical coordination and project management, which I’m now applying in my work at United Way.
What inspired you to work in the nonprofit sector, and what drew you to United Way?
One of the key inspirations for me to work in the nonprofit sector has been Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. I’ve always admired how it focuses on providing children with free books, helping to ignite a love for reading and learning at an early age. This initiative demonstrated the incredible impact that nonprofits can have on individual lives and communities. When I learned more about United Way’s mission to improve education, income, and health for all, I felt a strong alignment with those values. United Way’s focus on long-term community improvement resonated with me, and I knew it would be the perfect place to contribute my skills toward making a meaningful difference
How do you believe your work contributes to the mission of United Way and the community we serve?
By ensuring that the office operates efficiently, I help support the team in focusing on the bigger picture of improving lives in our community. Whether it’s assisting with the processing of donations or ensuring that our financial records are accurate, every task I perform contributes to the overall success of United Way’s initiatives.
What personal values or experiences drive your commitment to community service?
I’ve always believed that community is about supporting one another. Growing up, I saw firsthand how powerful acts of service can be in making a positive difference. That mindset is what drives my passion for community work and motivates me to contribute wherever I can, knowing that even small efforts can have a lasting impact.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work, and what activities do you enjoy with your family?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, enjoying outdoor activities, playing video games, or just having dinner together. I value quality time with my loved ones, as it helps me recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
What hobbies or interests do you have that help you maintain a work-life balance?
I enjoy reading and playing video games, as they provide a great way for me to unwind and relax. They allow me to take a break from the demands of work and refresh my mind. Additionally, spending quality time with my family is very important to me. Whether it’s sharing meals, playing games together, or just having meaningful conversations, these moments help me maintain a healthy balance between my personal and professional life.
What is one lesson you've learned throughout your career that you apply to your work at United Way?
One important lesson I’ve learned is the power of organization and clear communication. In both construction management and my current role at United Way, being organized helps me stay on top of tasks and ensures that things run smoothly. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and contributes to the overall success of the project or initiative.
If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be and how would you use it to make a difference in your community?
If I could have any superpower for a day, I would choose the ability to read minds. This power would allow me to better understand the needs, concerns, and desires of people in the community. I could directly address the challenges they face by offering support or connecting them with the resources they need. It would help me identify areas where assistance is most urgently required and ensure that no one’s needs go unnoticed or unmet.