For more than 15 years, Customer Service Representative Jennifer Koopmann has greeted customers at our 8040 E. Douglas Ave branch in Wichita with a friendly smile and excellent service. However, outside of work, Jennifer is a powerhouse community volunteer. Last year alone, she donated more than 200 hours of service to the Wichita community. We asked Jennifer to answer questions about her amazing dedication to making Wichita a better place to live by volunteering with Wichita Festivals, Inc.
How did you get started volunteering for the Wichita Festivals?
I began volunteering for Wichita Festivals about 11 years ago and have been working with them ever since. I started selling food court tickets at the River Festival with CapFed® and from there, I got involved with the Volunteer Committee. I have been the Chair and Co-Chair of the Volunteer Committee and helped at the Volunteer Headquarters during River Fest.
I started volunteering for this organization because I like that they are doing something for the people of Wichita. They enhance the quality of life and promote civic pride through different recreational, cultural and social events. Volunteering with them is a way to give back to the community in which I live and work. They provide a safe environment for the people of Wichita to come together and offer entertainment and friendship for all. I'm thankful to the managers in my CapFed branch for supporting my volunteer efforts.
You volunteered more than 200 hours last year. How did you find the time to do that?
I’m dedicated to River Fest and I understand it takes a lot of hours, from a lot of people, to put it on successfully. I save up vacation time all year to volunteer every day during the River Festival, but I also volunteer for other events Wichita Festivals organizes. I’ve volunteered for Autumn & Art, an event where artists from all over the U.S. come to sell their art. I’m also assisting in a new urban camping event called Vortex Music Fest. All of these events promote our great community and encourage the participation of community members. Wichita is a great place to live!
Why is volunteering important?
I feel volunteering is important because it shows you are willing to help make a difference. It also makes you aware of the needs of the community and those who are less fortunate. I encourage my children to volunteer so they can see ways to improve their community and understand the needs and challenges others face. I also want my kids to be aware of the multiple opportunities for volunteers and be inspired by people willing to donate their time to a cause.
I have been in Wichita for 26 years, and what I like best about living here are the friends I have met through my volunteering. This is home, and I want my children to grow up being able to know neighbors and having every opportunity to experience new things – that is why I volunteer.
You sincerely are True Blue®, Jennifer, and we appreciate all the volunteer work you do in Wichita! Keep up the great work!
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