April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, a month dedicated to recognizing the importance of volunteering and honoring the significant contributions volunteers make by generously donating their time and talents to worthy causes.  We are grateful for our volunteers and would like to offer a HUGE thanks for the hours each and every one of them have committed to our organization. Words cannot express how proud and how grateful the staff of the OCF are to our volunteer family and how in awe we are of your dedication.

This month’s volunteer spotlight features Tim Janis who serves on our investment committee and the Up North Impact Advisory committee. Tim was born and raised in East Tawas, Michigan. He is a proud graduate of Michigan State University where he majored in finance and specialized in wealth management. Tim moved to Gaylord in the fall of 2019 to pursue his career as a financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments. Tim is married to his high school sweetheart, Haley, who currently attends medical school at Central Michigan University. Outside of the OCF, Tim is in the Leadership Otsego County Program, Treasurer of the Otsego County Adult Hockey League, and a member of the Governance Advisory Board for Kirtland Community College.

Here is what Tim had to say about his experience volunteering for the OCF:

1. What attracted you to become involved with the OCF?

 I was referred to the OCF by a mentor without knowing much about it. Upon joining, I’ve been able to learn more about the foundation and find different areas where I can be of service.

2. In your opinion, what is the most important work this organization does?

I may be a little biased toward the investment committee… but creating and maintaining a sustainable investment fund is extremely important. We get to see the fruits of the fund used in the community today, but I’m also really excited about being able to grow the fund and contribute to future generations as well!

3. What’s it like to volunteer for the OCF?

I have had an absolute blast volunteering for the OCF and have learned a lot along the way! Dana, Karin, Amanda and Patty are absolute rock stars and are incredible to work with.

4. What do you hope the organization will achieve soon? In the long term?

One of my favorite parts of the foundation is how committed they are to its sustainability. I wasn’t a part of the grassroots team, but it has been incredible to see how much it has grown in just a few years. The OCF is already so impactful, thinking about where it could be down the road is really exciting to me!

5. Does anyone in your life play a role in supporting your involvement? In providing inspiration?

My wife Haley gives more of her time than anyone I know. I think I could volunteer full-time for the OCF and still not compare to what she does.

6. What do you wish other people knew about OCF?

I wish people knew that the OCF is the most effective way to impact the lives of their family, friends, and neighbors right here in their backyard. Everything the OCF does is right here in Otsego County, and I think that’s super important.

9. What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering for the OCF?

I would highly encourage anyone looking for volunteer opportunities to consider the OCF. The organization is diverse enough where you will absolutely find a spot to utilize your strengths.

Thank you, Tim, for your kind words and continued commitment to the OCF!

If you would like to learn more about OCF volunteer opportunities, click here: https://www.otsegofoundation.org/connect/#volunteer