Meet the Volunteers

Every year hundreds of Kaiser Permanente employees and physicians apply to spend a week of their own vacation time volunteering to help rebuild the Gulf Coast. Each of the sixty volunteers selected has their own reason for going; each also has a strong commitment to volunteerism and community service. Read about each of the volunteers below.
New Orleans Volunteers | Biloxi Volunteers

New Orleans

Volunteer Project Managers

	Shawn Pascale - Business Line Manager PVS Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Bellflower "I volunteer because I can and I would want someone to help me if I ever have a similar misfortune."
	Nicolaas Versteeg - Assistant Medical Group Administrator Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Riverside "Having served twice with the Gulf Coast project, is an experience that has touched my life. It has made me appreciate everything that I have and count my blessings for how fortunate I am, particularly in today's economy."
	Craig Wargon - PM, DPM The Permanente Medical Group "Of course, this has been a personally rewarding experience. Now having served as a volunteer and a team lead for the last two years, I hope I can provide a unique set of leadership skills that may be of value to our team."
	Curshanda Woods - Community Relations Specialist Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Regional Offices "I was personally affected by the Hurricane tragedy. Several family members were displaced and one distant relative tragically died. I went to Biloxi with KP last year and it was a most fulfilling experience. This year my desire is to continue that work but in New Orleans where there is still so much need. I have family in both Biloxi and New Orleans and helping them get their communities back to normalcy is the greatest thing that I can give to them."
	Theresa Yamasaki, Staff Nurse Kaiser Permanente Hawaii -Moanalua I have a deep love for the people and the culture of the Gulf Coast, especially New Orleans. There is still so much to do in the Gulf Region and I appreciate KP's long term commitment , to serving that community, where we don't have a bottom line or business in that area. It says a lot about our company.

Volunteers

	Arevik (Sunny) Ambartsumyan, Senior Clerk Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Sunset "I love to help people. It makes me feel useful. This event is inspirational. I am very passionate about it I saw the email announcement and I am very excited to have the opportunity to participate."
	Justin Belisario. Project Manager II Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Baldwin Park "With the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, many families have been displaced and many homes have been lost. I feel that as an employee of Kaiser Permanente, it is my obligation to do all in my power to help those who continue to struggle in the Gulf Coast. I know assistance is needed and I know it must be extremely difficult."
	Marilyn Boston, Administration Services Manager Kaiser PermanenteNorthern California - Manteca "I was born and raised in Louisiana; we lived in New Orleans for 11 years; I lost a cousin and a friend during Katrina and many of my family members lost their homes and are still displaced. I would like to see the entire area restored, especially the lower 9th ward of New Orleans."
	Tanya Brodsky-Levy, CME Coordinator Kaiser PermanenteSouthern California - Regional Offices "Growing up, I was always taught to help those in need. I was provided with many opportunities to give back. As an adult this is something that I strive to continue to do. I strongly feel that you get out of this world what you put into it, and I try to live my life as such."
	Kathy Butler, Clerical Assistant Kaiser Permanente Georgia - Cumberland "I have been a giver for many years, maybe not so much in financial ways but what I can give with my hands, body and especially my heart. This would fill my inner-soul commitment."
	Kumar Chatani, VP, Regional Information Officer Kaiser Permanente Northwest - Portland "I have worked as a volunteer for several community projects in India and US. I want to give back to the community. I applied last year too."
	Gail Delone, Member Intake Specialist Kaiser Permanente Northwest - Salmon Creek "I have two brothers and their families who are trying to re-build their lives there in New Orleans. I know first hand about the devastation that still exists. If I can help to make a difference, then I am there!"
	Banafshe Farid - Project Manager for KPHealthConnect Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Emeryville "(Persian) Iranian poet Saadi, eloquently said: The sons of Adam are limbs of each other, Having been created of one essence. When the calamity of time affects one limb, the other limbs cannot remain at rest. If thou hast no sympathy for the troubles of others Thou art unworthy to be called by the name of a human. Growing up that has always been the motto my family lived by which has been engrained in my being."
	Dan Fisher - Respiratory Therapist Kaiser Permanente Northwest - Sunnyside "My wife had a positive experience in 2007 with the first group and it seems to be an ongoing area of need where volunteerism will really make a difference."
	Rebecca Gambatese - Analytical Project Leader Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Ordway "I wish to directly serve others who have a very real need."
	Amy Gill - Project Manager Kaiser Permanente Southern California - KPIT Corona Data Center "I know people who were directly affected and who wouldn't want to live anywhere else to this day but so much time has passed and they are still struggling to make home feel like home again. If their spirits and will can hold strong, it's time for me to step up and give more than just money to the cause. I need to give my time, enthusiasm, work ethic, and heart into this and having the privilege to do this in conjunction with Kaiser Permanente would be a wonderful celebration of my 10th year at this great organization. Put me to work please."
	Sheila Hallstrom - MSW Intern Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Sunset Blvd. "Ever since Hurricane Katrina I have wanted to go there to help, but could not afford to do so. I find the joy in life is working to help others within various capacities. The people in the Gulf Coast have been so resilient through this process. I think seeing volunteers working to better their communities can instill a sense of hopefulness, which is so important during challenging times."
	Arthur Hermann - APO Senior Analyst Kaiser Permanente Northern California - KPIT Lennon Lane "I lived in New Orleans for 10 years prior to Katrina. I had my own consulting firm there prior to the hurricane. Due to the lack of functioning business - I was forced to relocate to California after the storm My wife and I happened to be in California just prior to the storm and cancelled our flight back. We then watched the destruction from California - and were "roving homeless" for almost two months after that - before we could return to the city. During this period I began interviewing with KP and finally took a job here in the November following Katrina. My heart and soul have still not not left New Orleans in some ways - and I would be honored to give back some of the love and caring that I felt living in that city daily for ten years."
	Bill King - APIC/Chief of Staff The Permanente Medical Group - Manteca "I was part of the first Physician group from Kaiser to go to Houston for Katrina relief and was with the group that went to Louisiana by van."
	Lisa Kramer - Senior Project Manager, NFS Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Regional Offices "Recently, during Mardi Gras I hosted a fundraising dinner for a chef-friend who was raising funds for an organization (the Saint Bernard Project) that is helping with the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans and that got me thinking about taking a "volunteer vacation" there later this year. So, when I heard that Kaiser is sponsoring the Gulf Coast Rehabilitation project I was very excited about the possibility of doing going with a group from KP."
	Jackie Mead - Administrative Assistant Kaiser Permanente of Colorado "I worked for 6-1/2 months on Katrina Recovery - very rewarding. I love to volunteer and am not afraid of hard work."
	Regina Moore - Imaging Radiology Ultrasonographer Kaiser Permanente of Ohio - Cleveland Heights "I lived in New Orleans(St. Bernard Parish) when Hurricane Katrina hit. I had 12 feet of water and lost my home as well as everything I had so I know first hand how devastating that storm was and how much the area still needs help. Once I was finally allowed to return home I received so much help in so many ways from numerous volunteers. I decided at that time that if I ever had the opportunity to return the favor I definitely wanted to. You have no idea how much it helps having so many wonderful, caring volunteers by your side in such a devastating situation. They even allowed me to cry on their shoulders when I didn't know what else to do. I want to be able to give back in any way I can. I know I speak for all residents of the Gulf Coast when I say your help and thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated!! I would prefer to go to New Orleans only because that was my home and where my former neighbors and friends live. I would love to help them out since they also helped me in many ways back then."
	Maly Nakoa - Registered Nurse Kaiser Permanente Hawaii -Moanalua "I have a heart to serve where ever I am needed. I enjoy getting dirty and physical labor."
	Emilee Neyens - SAL Internal Medicine Kaiser Permanente of Ohio - Orchards MOB "I like to visit the homeless folks in their camps here in Vancouver and deliver blankets and hot coffee. I love to serve others. I have been trying to get down there since this tragedy happened."
	Daryl Rice - Outpatient Coder Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Sacramento "I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. I have several family members who were displaced because of the hurricane. I would like to help in any little way that I can to rebuild the region. I visited the area shortly after the hurricane and could not believe the devastation for so many miles. It would be a blessing to participate in this great opportunity."
	Max Rorty - MSW Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Oakland "Most of my volunteerism has been in the gay and lesbian community in the Bay Area. I look forward to broadening and deepening my connection to other communities."
	Maria Tinoco - Medical Assistant Kaiser Permanente Southern California - San Diego "It would break my heart to see all this devastation going on and not being able to help. Helping others gives me a feeling of self fulfillment that I know I've made a difference in someone's life and done something positive. And that makes me extremely happy."
	Jaime Tollefson - Program Coordinator Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Emeryville "On December 31, 2008 I found out my 22-year-old brother was killed in Iraq after only serving for just 3 months. He is survived by a 10-month-old and his wife of less than one year. I had a very hard time giving Ben my blessing to join the Army and feel we never really resolved it before he died. Ben courageously served this country without a second thought as to the dangers. In honor of his service, I wish to give back to the country he so valiantly protected. At this point in my life, I know that putting my sorrows in perspective with those in much greater need will be a healing process for not only myself but for hopefully those in need as well."
	Emilio Vigil - Patient Service Representative Kaiser Permanente Northern California - San Jose "Any chance of helping another is worth volunteering for. I was raised to believe that is it is better to give then to receive...in which life has taught me that it is much more rewarding that way anyway! I remember the news footage and the stories that came after the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and I never thought I would get the chance to actually help those that suffered because of it. I am willing to work any shift, and do whatever work must be done."
	Karen Wubben - Registered Nurse Kaiser Permanente of Colorado - Highline Behavioral Health "I have always found volunteering a rewarding experience for everyone involved - both participants and recipients. I believe that everyone needs support in their life. There are times that those needs are higher than others and if you are able to give support you should. You may need the support down the road. My heart goes out to all those affected by the hurricanes; I have been fortunate to never have been in their shoes."

Biloxi

Volunteer Project Managers

	Vonnie Jones - Clinical Assistant II Kaiser Permanente of Mid-Atlantic States - Washington, DC "I know there is still work to be done. I learned last year, that we go to not just build houses we go to help the residents rebuild their community."
	Tristan Thunderbolt Herkimer - Educational Theatre Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Regional Offices "I've seen it in my own eyes that the Gulf Coast is far from being back to where it was. I see so much that needs to be done. I would love to continue to volunteer and help out. Biloxi and the Gulf Coast need us to bring back the sense of community and get people back into their homes."
	Scott Shattuck - Pharmacist Kaiser Permanente Northwest - Salmon Creek "Since 2007, I have had an emotional connection with the Gulf Coast region, the people that live there, and my colleagues from Kaiser Permanente. My experience with the rebuilding efforts has also given me a sense of pride as an American and a sense of pride as an employee of Kaiser Permanente. The immediate efforts to the Gulf Coast region was sub par and this is one way that I feel that I can make a difference those peoples lives. I want to be able to give back to my country as best as I can."
	Shirley Langlois - Practice Leader Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Regional Offices "I believe in volunteerism. During my life, much has been given to me. When I faced difficult times, volunteers have provided me with support. Now, I would like to give back. Especially, during these hard times, I feel it is really important that "those who have, give". In turn, I believe it is very important for the employees of Kaiser to support these community efforts. Volunteering brings out the best in people."
	Jill Magri - Chief Operating Officer Kaiser Permanente Northern California - San Rafael "I was involved last year with the team in Biloxi and it was a tremendously rewarding experience. I feel I have the time and energy to contribute to this worthwhile effort. It is important to me to be able to contribute back to the community in return for the many blessings I have received over the years."
	Deborah Smith - Chief Pharmacist Kaiser Permanente of Ohio - Strongsville "While the amount of work we can hope to accomplish in one week is small when you look at the big picture of the needs of the area, the injection of hope we bring to those we are able to touch that sometimes feel like they are slogging through a mess that everyone else has forgotten can be energizing and revitalizing."

Volunteers

	Maureen Abramson - Medical Assistant Kaiser Permanente Northwest - Salmon Creek "Now that my children are grown I am able to travel further away. I want to be able to make a positive change in someone's life and I can do that by giving of myself and hard work. I have always wanted to do volunteer work for disaster victims. I have struggled in my life and want to pay it forward whenever I have the opportunity."
	Marvin Andrews - Collector Kaiser Permanente Southern California- Parsons East "I'm from Arkansas, I have family throughout that area. I've been a volunteer all my life starting at seventeen when I volunteered to serve my country in the Marines. In order to receive, you have to be able to give."
	Mary Cadien - RN Staff Scheduler Kaiser Permanente Northwest Call Center - Portland I really feel that Kaiser Permanente should be a strong leader in community involvement and service. As Americans we often focus on aid to other countries. We have crises here and people who need our help.
	BrettAyn Catingub - Care Coordinator RN/LCSW Kaiser Permanente Northern California - So. Sacramento "My husband and I chose New Orleans as our honeymoon destination. We came home with a deeper understanding of the human spirit. It was very sad to us when Katrina hit. The opportunity to be part of the restoration would be a healing privilege."
	Cynthia Chavez-Franco - Admin Assistant IV Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Oakland "I want to make a difference in the lives of others and to give back to the community. I am proud to work for Kaiser and would like to meet other people in our organization with the same mission of helping others. I want to show my children and grandchildren and co-workers you can make a difference!"
	Karen Evans - Dept of Psychiatry Southern California Permanente Medical Group - San Diego "I would love to have the opportunity to make a difference in this region as I have experienced first hand the joys of service in other areas of our country, Mexico and my own community."
	Judith Gottlieb - Nurse Practitioner Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Oakland "I have worked for Kaiser Permanente for almost 30 years and would love to give back to the New Orleans community as a KP volunteer."
	Muriel Guzzi - Project Manager Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Pasadena "Whenever an opportunity comes up I am always willing to volunteer. I just want to do this and I appreciate the opportunity to work with others at KP"
	Jennifer Harber - Psychiatric Social Worker Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Anaheim "Marian Wright Edelman said, "Service is the rent we pay to be living. It is the very purpose of life and not something you do in your spare time." This is one of my favorite quotes because it encapsulates how I feel about my profession and volunteering; it is an essential part of life to help others and provide hope."
	Talva Holsey - Medical Assistant Kaiser Permanente Northern California - So. Sacramento "First and foremost my heart has gone out the city and its people that have lost their entire way of living. It is very unfortunate and disheartening for such a tragedy to come about for anyone. I believe in doing for others as you would have them do unto you; therefore, I would like to believe that if I was to somehow become displaced in my livelihood that others from around the world would reach out and help me as well."
	James Hopkins - Registered Nurse Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Walnut Creek "I am looking for a personal way to have more direct impact. I have a craftsman background and want to give of my skills."
	Eric Hoyt - Emergency Dept Tech I Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Modesto "I personally believe that I have been put on this earth to make a difference big or little. And I will keep trying to do so all my life. All of you would be doing me a favor by letting me go along with this volunteer group to help make a difference for these poor people that had something horrible happen to them. Please bestow this honor upon me. I will do a great job."
	Mary Marshall - BVT/Patient Care Manager Kaiser Permanente Northwest - Beaverton "I am a grateful US citizen, dedicated to work, family and my community. It is a gift to share my time and energy to make the world a better place. Painting, nailing, cooking, serving, and being an extra set of hands is a lifetime passion."
	Pam Oseles-Mast - Registered Nurse Kaiser Permanente Colorado - Westminster "It would be an honor to be part of this, to represent KP and to help people in need. Life to me is being involved with fellow human beings, not to be a silo. That is why I went into nursing. I've learned as a nurse to have balance in life in order to be of service to others. I'm proud to work for a company that gives back to the community."
	Falu Rami - BHC Helpline Coordinator Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Orange County "I have a personal interest in this. I have provided about 4 months of service post Katrina to various parts of Louisiana in the area of mental health. It was the greatest gratification I have ever received in my work."
	Hanadi Shamkhani - Physician Director, Drug Utilization Management Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States - Regional Office "Just to be able to help. In this very difficult economic time, it is a way to say thank you for my blessings."
	Victor Sipos - Counsel Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Oakland "I have been involved with a team of volunteers that were able to work together in helping people improve their homes and lives in ways that are often too difficult to accomplish individually."
	Karin Soderberg - Asthma Care Manager Kaiser Permanente Southern California - San Diego "I have a strong desire for the experience, the learning, the opportunity to provide something concrete and specific that can make a difference in all of our lives."
	Georganne Soule - Manager, Recruitment Services Kaiser Permanente Northern California - San Jose "I am from there. My daughter volunteered in New Orleans for clean up after Katrina and described the experience. Volunteering for me is one of my most important life philosophies."
	Pam Strahan - Charge Nurse Kaiser Permanente of Colorado "Since participating in local community service projects I have discovered I want to do more. Hearing and seeing the devastation to people's lives and property in the gulf coast has drawn me to try and help. I have been blessed with 24 years of employment with Kaiser Permanente and feel it's now my time to give back."
	Michelle Teng - Project Manager Kaiser Permanente Southern California - Los Angeles "I was fascinated and horrified at the same time when Hurricane Katrina hit that summer, three and a half years ago. The memories of reading the stories in the newspaper and watching the images on TV have stuck with me. I have been very lucky in my life so far and I believe that it is important to be grateful and appreciative for what I have received. It is only right that I give back to others that need a hand."
	Sai Vongsa - Patient Service Representative Kaiser Permanente Northern California - Fresno "There are many great people in my life that have touched my heart and soul and made me who I am today. When my family came to the United States as refugees, the local Church in Endwell N.Y. had volunteers available to help my family and I adjust to America. It was this great act of unselfishness of a group of strangers that touched my life. It has been over 25 years since we have settled in the United States and their generosity still resonates in my mind and heart. I can never repay them for their kindness. Volunteering for the Gulf Coast is what I would truly like to do."
	Richard Young - Medical Lab Tech Kaiser Permanente Georgia - Crescent Center "It seems only right for me to give back and serve the communities that are in need. This opportunity is also a special one for me because during the year of Hurricane Katrina, I taught seventh grade Life Science at Gainesville Middle School. I had the opportunity to teach several students who were displaced by the devastating storm. These students were simply a joy to have to in the classroom despite the fact they did not know anyone. I also had the chance to meet some of their parents. This opportunity will allow me help communities of my former students and their families."

Meet the Volunteers

New Orleans

Biloxi

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