WHO WE ARE

Tell us about yourself. What is your title and what do you do in your role?

I am a Director for the Strategy, Planning and Execution area in Business Insurance at Travelers. In my role, I lead a team of Business Analysts, driving strategic initiatives to enhance business success. Additionally, I serve as the Marketing and Communications Lead for the Hispanic/Latino & Allies Diversity Network at Travelers.

How did you first get involved in volunteer work?

My journey into volunteer work began many years ago, starting with Spanish translation for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, a non-profit organization that offers a variety of year-round programs to children with serious illnesses and their families, free of charge. The opportunity to make a positive impact and connect with this community inspired me to continue volunteering. Witnessing the transformative power of kindness and support in action fueled my passion for giving back and serving others.

I am deeply passionate about the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp because it provides a safe and supportive environment for children facing significant challenges. The camp allows them to experience joy, build confidence and create lasting memories. It also provides them the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and experience new activities, fostering confidence and independence.

For families, the camp offers a break from daily routines and worries, creating a safe haven for relaxation and bonding. It is a much-needed escape from their sometimes difficult, daily reality.

Ultimately, the organization’s mission resonates with me, as it aligns with my values of empathy, community and empowerment.

Can you describe the volunteer work you do?

As a volunteer, I help prepare camp for campers and their families. This includes making beds, cleaning cabins, raking leaves, sweeping – whatever it takes! I also serve as a “Family Pal,” spending weekends with families at the camp. We engage in activities like fishing, archery, ziplining, art, baking and talent shows. This role allows me to create bonds and support families throughout their camp experience, providing them with a sense of community and joy.

Do you have any memorable moments from volunteering that you can share?

One of the most touching moments from my volunteering experience was bonding with my assigned family, which included a mom, dad, grandma and two amazing little boys. The atmosphere was filled with love, kindness and support, creating a truly magical experience. Seeing the joy and gratitude on the campers’ faces was incredibly heartwarming and left me feeling fulfilled. What’s even more special is the bond we formed persists to this day and we continue to stay in touch. This connection has reinforced my commitment to continue volunteering, knowing that these moments of connection and happiness make a real difference in people’s lives.

How has volunteering influenced your personal or professional growth?

Volunteering has enriched my life, teaching me empathy, patience and understanding. It has reinforced the importance of community involvement in both personal and professional growth, helping me develop a deeper appreciation for diverse experiences and perspectives. There is no bigger joy than to witness the look of happiness on a child’s face and the pride and love of their families.

Through my volunteer work, I’ve honed my communication skills, becoming more adept at expressing myself and listening to others. Working alongside fellow volunteers and families has strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively, fostering a spirit of teamwork that transcends cultural and language barriers. Moreover, volunteering has deepened my cultural sensitivity, allowing me to connect with diverse communities on a meaningful level. It’s taught me to approach challenging situations with empathy and understanding by seeing the world through different perspectives and appreciating the richness of human experiences. These skills have not only enriched my volunteer efforts but have also positively impacted my personal and professional life, making me a more compassionate and open-minded individual.

How do you balance your volunteer work with your professional responsibilities?

Balancing volunteer work with my professional responsibilities is all about finding harmony between the two. I make sure to plan ahead and prioritize tasks, so both my work and volunteer commitments get the attention they deserve. It’s not always easy, but with effective time management and the wonderful support from my leadership, team and colleagues, I’m able to give my best to both areas. Their encouragement and understanding make it possible for me to pursue my passion for volunteering while fulfilling my professional duties.

How does the company support your volunteer efforts?

I’m truly proud to be part of Travelers, a company that genuinely cares about its community and employees. Travelers actively supports volunteer efforts by encouraging and providing opportunities for us to engage in meaningful community service while amplifying our volunteer efforts through the Volunteer Rewards program. Employees can earn volunteer rewards that turn into charitable donations for organizations of our choice making it easier and more fulfilling to contribute my time and skills to causes that matter. This supportive environment not only empowers me to make a difference, but also inspires others to join in and experience the joy of giving back.

What advice would you give to someone interested in starting volunteer work?

If you’re considering starting volunteer work, my advice is to take that first step and dive in. Step out of your comfort zone and explore opportunities that truly resonate with you. Volunteering is a transformative experience that enriches not only your life but also the lives of those you touch. It fosters a deep sense of community and connection, creating bonds that last a lifetime. Remember, it all begins and ends with your willingness to get involved. So, embrace the journey and you’ll find it incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.