VEAP loves our volunteer corps of 3,000 people! In our Volunteer Spotlight series, we highlight their amazing work and dedication in advancing VEAP’s mission.
When did you get involved with VEAP?
Anna: I have Fridays off so I thought I would join the Lifeworks group here to volunteer; I also work at Best Buy Corporate Center 3 days a week.
Rachael: I started volunteering at VEAP about 2 years ago.
Brian: It’s been a little over a year since I started volunteering with the group from Lifeworks.
Emma: I’ve volunteered since May 2017.
What volunteer roles do have with VEAP? What is your favorite?
Anna: I really like the data entry work that I do and I also volunteer a little bit in the warehouse. I like data entry because it is repetitive. I really like working on computers and I’m good at it.
Rachael: I really like data entry and working on computers, I’m fast!
Brian: I volunteer in the warehouse and enjoy being there with other volunteers.
Emma: I volunteer in the warehouse and in data entry; I really enjoy both roles.
What do you enjoy about volunteering with VEAP?
Anna: VEAP is a very nurturing and kind environment. People here are good to everyone regardless of abilities, I always want to come back. It is very inclusive and everyone is welcome to be here.
Rachael: People are friendly here, I like networking and meeting people. I also like the pop and snacks.
Brian: I like the atmosphere in the warehouse and talking with people.
Emma: I love all of the friendships I’ve made here.
Is there a particular moment or favorite memory that stands out from volunteering?
Anna: One time we were working with Axe body wash and we really didn’t like how it smelled at all! I thought it smelled like high school boys.
Brian: There are so many different types of foods that come in and sometimes they are in really big bins. The first time I came there was a HUGE bin of rice, I’d never seen that much rice before.
Emma: Everyone has been so nice here.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
Anna: I work 3 days/week at Best Buy Corporate Center on the 4th floor with the Lifeworks group, I do a lot of computer work and business administration. I also run track and swim for Special Olympics.
Rachael: I’m shy at first when I meet people, I’m good with numbers, and I’m a fast typist. I love working with computers, meeting people, and making new friendships. I have a 6 year old son, Drew.
Brian: I grew up in Edina and now I live in Richfield. I love to spend time with my niece, Lilly, she is really silly.
Emma: I’m part Peruvian and I grew up in Edina.
What do you do when you aren’t volunteering?
Anna: I like to do a lot of gaming, especially computer games, and exercise.
Rachael: I like to listen to music and watch TV. My favorite artist is Justin Bieber.
Brian: I like to watch TV and Netflix.
Emma: I like to play with my dog, Asher, and my cat, Ben. I also like to go the Humane Society and play with the cats.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at VEAP?
Rachael: It’s a lot of fun, easy-going, and there are great people here.
Anna: It is kind and calm here, people are really nice, and it is a good work environment, safe and quiet.
Brian: You’ll really enjoy coming here!
Emma: You should come volunteer here because it is a really nice, warm environment.
Are you ready to become a volunteer? Sign up today!
