In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, United Way of Portage County asked some of the wonderful volunteers who support their work why they give their time and 
talents to the organization. Below is Brad's story and why he is involved with United Way in this community:
I have been an active volunteer for the United Way of Portage County since the fall of 2015. My work with United Way has primarily been as a member of our Board of Trustees. Before becoming Chair, I served as Co-Chair of our Community Impact Committee, and through that work got to know first-hand about the great work our funded partners do to improve the health, education, and financial well-being of people in our community. As Chair, I have the opportunity to see all aspects of our local United Way's work, and am immensely proud of the many dedicated volunteers who make that work possible. Whenever and wherever I can, I like to engage in that effort side-by-side with them.
I volunteer with United Way because I believe it is the best way for us to target our resources to programs and services that can change lives for the better in our community.
For me, the most rewarding aspects of volunteering for United Way always come in our visits with our funded partners and the people they serve - particularly programs for children. Seeing up close how United Way is helping to ensure kids in our community are fed, have safe opportunities to learn, and getting the academic support they need to grow and prosper reinforces for me that the work United Way does matters, and I couldn't be prouder to play a part in it.
Serving as a member of the Board of United Way has been one of the great joys and privileges I've had. This is an organization that is making a difference, and I'm proud to have some small part in making sure that work can continue for years to come.
To learn more about volunteer opportunites with United Way of Portage County or other programs in the community, visit uwportage.org/volunteer-opportunities