This is a new section of the Arizona blog where we will showcase one of the countless hard working volunteers and community organizers. For the inaugural post we are showcasing Vene A., a local lawyer from Tucson who is passionate about working with her neighbors and bettering her community.
I am a transactional attorney from Nogales, Arizona, with a secret political wonk side. I found OFA through an email, and was immediately drawn to the organization. So far I have participated in planning a major media event at the University of Arizona Medical School, where over 200 doctors, students and researchers attended. The event garnered television press. I've collected over 100 declarations on behalf of OFA, I have also assisted in phone banking, notably on the day OFA attempted to get 100,000 calls to Washington, D.C. and we ended up with 330,000 calls to Congress and last, I have helped in planning and attending canvasses. As a result of my involvement in OFA, I was invited to the White House to represent OFA at a reception and concert.
1. How long have you been volunteering with OFA? I've been volunteering with OFA since August. 2. Why did you get involved volunteering with OFA? I felt energized by the state staff to work on pushing through President Obama's agenda. 3. What are some of the more effective practices you have found that work in getting people mobilized with OFA? Leading by example and sharing my personal story have been the two most effective practices that motivate people. I also find that listening to volunteers and truly hearing their stories to personalize my training helps the work go easier. 4. What has been the highlight of your time volunteering with OFA? Definitely organizing and putting together a presentation for hundreds of students and professionals. 5. What issue/issues matters most to you and why? In general, social inequality is the most important issue to me because it leads to so many other problems. If we can equalize the opportunities for different classes/races at a young age, we can prevent many of the issues that face the impoverished and minorities. We see this issue pervade health care reform, education reform, drug policy reform and energy policy.
1. How long have you been volunteering with OFA?
I've been volunteering with OFA since August.
2. Why did you get involved volunteering with OFA?
I felt energized by the state staff to work on pushing through President Obama's agenda.
3. What are some of the more effective practices you have found that work in getting people mobilized with OFA?
Leading by example and sharing my personal story have been the two most effective practices that motivate people. I also find that listening to volunteers and truly hearing their stories to personalize my training helps the work go easier.
4. What has been the highlight of your time volunteering with OFA?
Definitely organizing and putting together a presentation for hundreds of students and professionals.
5. What issue/issues matters most to you and why?
In general, social inequality is the most important issue to me because it leads to so many other problems. If we can equalize the opportunities for different classes/races at a young age, we can prevent many of the issues that face the impoverished and minorities. We see this issue pervade health care reform, education reform, drug policy reform and energy policy.
