December 17, 2015
You’ve probably seen their pictures at a United Way campaign kickoff event or inside your office during the fall, but did you ever wonder who these ambassadors representing United Way are? We wanted you to meet the real people in our community helping advocate our great work throughout the year.
Shalon Atkins was pregnant with her son when she posed for this United Way campaign banner three years ago, so what are they up to today?
Victor is a very active 3-year-old! He loves to sing in the choir at church and participates in the youth program, Junior Red Circle. He is learning to play the drums and is interested in the piano. Right now, I am teaching him Spanish. He is learning his numbers and is grasping the concept of tying his own shoes too.
Shalon, what is your involvement with United Way? Has it changed in the three years since you posed for our banner?
I got involved with United Way, through my employer New Concept Self Development Center. Currently, I am a workplace campaign Ambassador; I serve on the United Way Speakers Bureau, and also supervise the United Way-funded programs for the center. Even today, I still have people recognize me from that banner. It is really fun to attend the United Way Campaign Kickoffs and Closings with Victor so people can see us together. I am so very proud of my son and happy I had the opportunity to represent United Way.
What is Victor’s favorite way to help others?
Since Victor has the opportunity to go to work with me, he finds time to get training in the various functions of the office and to be in the community as well. He loves learning new things and will watch what is being done so he can try it as well. Victor loves to meet new people, give hugs, and shake hands. He is extraordinarily kind and helpful towards others.
In addition to the work you do for United Way, what else is your family involved within the community?
We do a variety of volunteer work and our whole family is active members in our Church, Metropolitan Missionary Baptist.