During the past few weeks our chapter, like many non-profits, have been re-imagining what our Spring and Summer events look like.  Fortunately, before all this began, our programs and events were already being supported by incredible volunteers who are leading the way.  It’s because of the flexibility and commitment of all our volunteers that we continue to see momentum.    

Later this month we will be celebrating National Volunteer Week (April 19-25). That’s why, for the month of April, our team couldn’t pick just ONE everyday hero.  Meet just a few of our amazing volunteers who, despite difficult circumstances, devote their passion and creativity to work alongside us to turn type one into type none.  

Katie Budelmann –   Katie and her son go the extra mile to drive progress toward our mission.  As a top One Walk team in conjunction with her role as an Outreach Volunteer she makes every effort to help connect families to our services.  After volunteering at the 2019 One Dream Gala she inquired about taking on a larger role for our ever changing 2020 One Dream Gala.  She is always willing to volunteer at events and is professional, smart and always wants to provide the best guest experience.  This year, she assisted on a subcommittee for Type One Nation Summit, assisting with speaker liaison.  Thanks for all you do Katie!   

Audrey Geiger –   A member of the JDRF Chapter Board of Directors, Audrey has been involved in all of our programs and events.   She continues to play a huge role as past Outreach Chair of our Outreach Committee.  Through this work, Audrey has helped train the new Outreach Chair, connects with newly diagnosed for peer to peer support, plays a large role in the execution of Type One Nation Summit, and leads a monthly adult networking group.  She plans to continue this group virtually, every other week, while everyone is at home.  Her adaptability and positivity are what keep us going during these times.  Thank you Audrey! 

Tracy Ingrassalino –  Tracy is a true go-getter who is not afraid to ask anyone for a donation to advance our mission.  She enjoys bringing families into the JDRF community and recognizes the importance of education about T1D.  Tracy helped plan a successful education program at her daughters’ school.  She has continuously been ready and available to help our chapter in many ways.  In February, Tracy propelled our All In For Our Heroes event to new heights bringing many friends in support of JDRF. Tracy pours her heart and soul into everything she commits to and her loyalty to JDRF is what keeps us going.  Thank you Tracy!   

Lynel Katz – Over the years Lynel has dedicated her time and talent to various programs within the chapter.  Lynel is passionate about raising awareness and is a fierce advocate for the T1D community. Her kind nature makes her both a wonderful friend and a great partner on projects. Her unwavering commitment to the One Dream Gala during this time is indispensable. As a new Gala Champion she is bringing the community together in new and creative ways.  We can always count on her to be honest and to provide thoughtful feedback, whether that’s about an event or personal events in your life. She always takes a minute to step outside of her own perspective and empathize with others. Lynel supports many of our programs including One Walk, One Dream Gala, and Community Outreach.  We are forever grateful for the support Lynel donates toward the progress of our mission.  Thank You Lynel! 

Angelina Finnerty –  As someone not personally living with T1D, Angelina is what we like to call a JDRF Angel.  She saw a boy with T1D eating lunch alone because students were bullying him.  Angelina decided to lead with compassion and wanted to clear up misconceptions about type one diabetes. She went to the school principal and planned an assembly and fundraiser for JDRF.   Angelina is a true leader and we are forever thankful for her service.  Thank you Angelina!   

Right now, we are heartened and encouraged to see so many in our community lifting each other up and doing everything they can to support our JDRF family during this crisis.  We know this is a stressful time so please, remember you have the support of the entire JDRF community. Together we are going to get through this. Thank you and stay safe.