“They were my own personal support group,” recalls Margaret. “They gave me advice that I’ve always remembered and now share with my twins, who have babies of their own.”
When she came to MGIC, where she is now vice president of Marketing and Customer Experience, Margaret once again found herself surrounded by mentors. “I’ve always had really supportive managers, and MGIC encourages its employees to pursue their education with tuition reimbursement,” said Margaret. “I had great opportunities to grow.”
As a member of United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council, Margaret has had the opportunity to pay it forward. Each year, Women United hosts a mentorship series for young women at James Madison Academic Campus (JMAC), a Milwaukee Community School. During four annual sessions, mentors and students talk about topics like professionalism, resume-writing, interviewing, and preparing for life after high school.
“We are all successful women, and it is a privilege to help local students get ready for the workplace,” said Margaret. “It’s so important for women to support women and to give back.”
Margaret was so inspired by her mentoring experience at JMAC, she decided to take it on the road. In March of 2018, MGIC held a women’s executive leadership event with customers in Arizona. The theme of the retreat was mindful leadership, with one morning devoted to mentoring local young women.
Volunteers visited the Tucson Re-Engagement Center, took a tour, met their mentees, and got to work. The session focused on resume-writing and how to market oneself. “We hoped for more participants, but those that were there were very forthcoming about their situations and hopes for the future.”
The volunteers had a great experience. “I had two of our customers say that they were going to get involved in their local United Way and encourage more support from their employers,” said Margaret.
United Way is proud to connect the dots between volunteers willing to share their time and talents, and community members - like students at JMAC - who could use a helping hand. In 2018 alone, volunteers contributed more than 42,000 hours giving back to their community through United Way.
Margaret is grateful to United Way and Women United for the inspiration.
“I’ve been donating to United Way for as long as I’ve been in the workplace,” said Margaret. “In 2016, I attended the Women United Bruncheon and was so inspired. After the event, I sent an email to see how I could become a member of the Women’s Leadership Council.”
“It’s so rewarding,” said Margaret. “I’ve had some fabulous mentors in my life…it was a natural fit!”
Learn more about Women United.