Becky Brown, of Niles, volunteers for several organizations, including the Niles Service League, Berrien County Civitan Club, Niles Young Leaders, Four Flags Chamber of Commerce and Edwardsburg Lioness Club.

 

What do you do as a volunteer?

I am the incoming president for the Niles Service League and what we do is raise money for kids in Niles, Brandywine and Buchanan. We do several fundraisers and events like the Color Run, (support) Christmas families with food and presents. We actually use my Edward Jones office (in downtown Niles) for that (Christmas families).

I am the vice president for Niles Young Leaders. We meet in my office and, just recently, we met with Niles High School seniors and did a mentoring day with them.

Today (Tuesday) I just got back from presenting six $500 scholarship to Niles High School seniors for the Niles Service League.

I am also the vice president for the Edwardsburg Lioness Club. I was in that club for two years, but currently just stepped out of the role. We raise money that will be used in Edwardsburg.

 

Why do you choose to spend so much time volunteering?

I own a business in the community and I believe in giving back to the community.

 

Why is that important?

I believe you should support the people that support you. It is just something I’ve always done. Whatever community I’ve been in I’ve always been part of it. I have a 10-month-old daughter and I want her to see that you can give back to your community and you need to give back to your community.

 

What do you enjoy most about volunteering?

Yesterday (Monday) I served food at the Salvation Army with Freedom Church. Just the smile and the peoples’ faces when you give them something they can’t get for themselves. The gratitude. I enjoy that.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her as the Volunteer of the Week by calling Craig Haupert, community editor, at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com, or drop them off at the office, 217 N. Fourth St., Niles.