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 60 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.
Ocean Springs Volunteers | New Orleans Volunteers

Ocean Springs

2011 Project Managers

	Gurshan Bajwa, Account Administrative Representative Southern California "I came to Mississippi last year with the hopes of giving back to a community that has gone through so much. It turns out I received so much more than I even hoped to give. This is a chance to try to level the scales by giving it all I have and, more importantly, inspiring those around me the way I was last year."
	Kenny Ballinger, Team Lead Southern California "I volunteer for others because I have the ability to do so. I volunteer for others who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. I volunteer for others because so many would do the same if afforded the opportunity. "
	Joshua Drainville, Technical Services Manager Program Offices " "To the world you may be but one person, but to one person, you may be the world." That anonymous quote sums up the experience I had during the Gulf Coast Project 2010. I saw the difference we made in the face of every person we worked with. "
	John Edmiston, Community Relations Manager Program Office "Katrina and Rita were the worst natural disaster to ever strike this country, but the spirit and resilience of the Gulf Coast residents, and the compassion of our volunteers, will continue to help in the recovery we're committed to. Since George Halvorson first gave the green-light in 2006, the response has been overwhelming, with more applications every year. Managing this project has been a gift, and the life-long friendships I've made have enriched my life far more than I ever imagined."
	Jennifer Harber, Psy Social Worker Southern California "The employees selected to participate in this wonderful adventure have such heart, compassion, strength and drive that I would not want to be anywhere else in the world other than in the Gulf Coast this April."
	Michelle Teng, Workforce Planning Consultant Northern California "The core values that have paved my life are to impact, contribute and give back to my community. I truly believe in this and strive to live life by fulfilling Dalai Lama's philosophy that, "It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good, both for oneself and others." "
	Marc Van Riper, Director-Labor/Management Partnership Northern California "I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit and volunteer in the Gulf Coast a few years ago. My initial visit was life changing and I truly value the opportunity I had to lend a helping hand. I look forward to revisiting the area and capitalizing on my past experiences."

2011 Volunteers

	Cynthia Atkinson, Registered Nurse Mid-atlantic States "It's my honor, privilege and responsibility to be of assistance to those in need. "
	Bob Blair, Medical Group Administrator Southern California "True happiness comes to each of us from serving others and by giving our time, talents and caring to others. The people of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast are very special to me; no where have I felt the spirit of hospitality and caring more. "
	Connie Bonilla, Health Education Assistant Northern California "I aspire to inspire a new generation of volunteers, such as my high school daughter or a new hire at Kaiser Permanente. I would like them to know that volunteering is possible, but only if you believe that change can happen with the help of people who are willing to make volunteering possible."
	Shaula Coulson, Licensed Practical Nurse Northwest "God's love has filled my cup to overflowing and there's plenty for me to give away."
	Elizabeth Diep, RN Educator Southern California "I've always been taught to be a productive member of society and to give back what I've received. This is a great opportunity for me to "pay it forward.""
	Angelia Dixon-Debarlabon, Pediatric Nurse Georgia "For me, giving brings joy and creates harmony. It unites mankind from all walks of life. I volunteer because there is no better way to show love."
	Anna Echiverri, Attendance Project Manager Southern California "Many years ago my grandmother was diagnosed with lymphoma. I was motivated to see people volunteer, run, walk and fund-raise to find a cure for cancer. My grandmother is alive and 90 years old today. Just like the people that helped my grandmother heal, I want to give what I can to help the people of Gulf Coast and anyone else in need."
	Rajaa Elalami, Quality Performance Assistant II Mid-atlantic States "Volunteering and helping others is the only place I know that I can be at peace with my self and the world. I feel that when I help others, it allows me to grow and focus on the important things in life. Additionally, I feel that volunteering my time to assist others helps to put smiles and happiness in the hearts of those who deserve it the most. Representing Kaiser Permanente, in the Gulf Coast would be a great pleasure."
	Erica Gates, Member Services Supervisor Mid-atlantic States "I am volunteering for the Gulf Coast project because it is a great cause. There is no better way to learn, grow and experience the best of human nature than to help others. "
	Tani-Ann Iida, Registered Nurse Hawaii "I'm honored to be able to help the folks still dealing with the aftermath of Katrina and now the BP oil spill. After seeing how long it took our Kaua'i to recover from Hurricane 'Iniki, my heart, hands and aloha happily go out to our brothers and sisters of the South."
	Steve Jackson, Medical Social Worker Northwest " I am looking forward to working with the diverse group of KP volunteers whose goal is to make a positive impact in the communities we serve."
	Tristan Jardini, Physician Northern California "I feel like my time is best spent where I am needed most, and the Gulf Coast is still in a state of extreme need. I am honored to help contribute in any small way to the recovery of such a vital and vibrant community."
	Tracy Kleiner, Staff Nurse IV Northern California "Though my goal is to improve the lives of those who lost everything in the hurricanes, I can't help but feel that I will forever be changed from this experience as well."
	Brian Krinsky, Systems Engineer Southern California "One of the issues we face in our nation today is that people tend not to seek to invest themselves in something greater than their own self-interest. KP's commitment to community benefit is both an example of how we can change that and an opportunity to put it in to practice."
	Jeff Leonard, Pharmacy IT Analyst Colorado " Giving to others, be it rebuilding a playground, a house or a school, will help the people of Mississippi tremendously to continue to live as they have before the hurricanes. I look forward to utilizing my talents and energy and to leave knowing I've made a difference in someone's life."
	Michael Mahl, Production Manager Northern California "One of the practices of Buddhism is "Gohoshi," which means "service to others," and performing that service on a regular basis helps you develop your Buddha nature. I look for every opportunity to perform Gohoshi, because I believe the most precious gift we have to give is time. "
	Lee Han Martin, Administrative Specialist III Southern California " I have a heart for service and a passion to help others. I don't have much in the way of financial resources to monetarily support these causes, however, I enjoy working and giving back through service. "
	Angela Pritchett, Membership Services Representative Northwest "I have been blessed with the time and the passion to volunteer. I believe that the human spirit is one of the most impressive aspects of life and every single person that is still fighting in the South to restore what they once had is going to be a reminder of that. "
	Rebecca Renfro, Physician Recruitment Coordinator Northern California ""Do all the good you can, and make as little fuss about it as possible." - Charles Dickens "
	Spencer Rhodes, Cinical Products/Equipment specialist Northwest "Volunteering allows us to bridge the expanding gap between communities. Knowing that others are willing to help in a time of need unites us as a society."
	Luke Scanlon, Technical Recruiter Program Offices "When I witnessed first hand the devastation and destruction that hurricane Katrina unleashed on the people of Louisiana and Mississippi, it reminded me of the time I spent living in Haiti. Visiting the Ninth ward shortly after Hurricane Katrina hit, I knew in my heart that I had to do whatever I could to lend a hand and try and make a difference."
	Paul Schafer, Technology Solution Consultant Program Offices "Spending time, helping others, and giving back is something that can be much more valuable than money alone. "
	Keith Tanner, Supervisor Northwest "Kaiser Permanente does so much throughout the organization to give back to the communities around us. To be part of the effort, in extending our hearts and hands to help beyond those local communities KP traditionally serves, is truly an honor."
	Robert Vargas, Physicians Assistant Southern California "After Katrina, I worked for a week in the Astrodome, providing medical care for the New Orleans refugees. It was an incredible experience, and I'm excited to return to the Gulf Coast to help again."

New Orleans

2011 Project Managers

	Jonathan Bestwick, Registered Nurse Southern California "I used to live outside of New Orleans in Bayou Vista as a commercial diver, and realize the effects of the weather and the environment on destroying communities and individuals' lives. Rebuilding communities helps to rebuild the lives that can then improve and grow to assist others around them."
	John Edmiston, Community Relations Manager Program Office "Katrina and Rita were the worst natural disaster to ever strike this country, but the spirit and resilience of the Gulf Coast residents, and the compassion of our volunteers, will continue to help in the recovery we're committed to. Since George Halvorson first gave the green-light in 2006, the response has been overwhelming, with more applications every year. Managing this project has been a gift, and the life-long friendships I've made have enriched my life far more than I ever imagined."
	Amanda Forster, Senior Physical Therapist Northern California "I'm honored to be returning to New Orleans as a project leader, after volunteering with the team in 2010. It was truly a life-altering experience, which helped me to better understand the challenges still facing the city's inhabitants. I was deeply touched by the stories of so many people whose lives were uprooted because of Hurricane Katrina, knowing that their perseverance, faith, and pride helped guide them through the past few years of extreme adversity. "
	Tiffany Gardner, Communications Specialist Southern California "I am excited to return to New Orleans as a project leader. I look forward to seeing the progress that has been made on our projects, and I am really happy that Kaiser Permanente continues to support this program."
	Jackie Jones, Director Southern California "While in the Navy my husband, who grew up in St. Bernard Parish, and I were stationed in New Orleans for eight years. I was lucky to be one of the first group of volunteers chosen to help rebuild the Gulf Coast area. I'm so very proud to be a part of an organization who returns to the Gulf Coast year after year because it's the right thing to do!!"
	Rudy Lemus, Operations Director Southern California "One person can make a difference. It would be ungrateful (for me) not to take advantage of this opportunity to try and do my part to help others in whatever way I can, be it small or large."
	Karen Quintal, Communications Specialist Northern California "I had the privilege of being in the first group of Gulf Coast volunteers. It was a life-defining experience and I'm grateful that Kaiser Permanente makes it possible for people in this organization to have such a meaningful, hands-on opportunity. My parents are from New Orleans and I have relatives there, but my desire to be a part of the rebuild crew goes beyond family ties. It fulfills a basic human need to be of service, to make a difference, to be the change."

2011 Volunteers

	Scott Champion, Senior Manager Program Offices "I'm excited about this opportunity to represent Kaiser Permanente, to give back and to help a community in need. I am blessed to be able to make a difference by serving alongside my family and friends. "Love cannot remain by itself -- it has no meaning. Love has to be put into action, and that action is service." Mother Teresa"
	Kelly Egan, Product Performance Leader Southern California "The opportunity to serve in the Gulf Coast feels like a gift, another tangible benefit of working for Kaiser Permanente. This is the organization I wanted to join when I first read about it in a History of Health Care course during my graduate studies. So many other health care companies are motivated by profits, rather than people. As a non-clinical employee, this gives me a hands-on chance to represent Kaiser Permanente in the community, and to express my gratitude for all I've been given."
	Leah Frank, ER Service Assistant Southern California "I get so much more from this than I could ever give. I'm fortunate enough to have been chosen to participate and so grateful to give back, I look forward to meeting all of my HONO housemates, and start pitching in."
	Timothy Horton, Physician Georgia "I not really sure where my passion to spend a week in New Orleans comes from, but I can't stand to see the emptiness and hopeless that can come after such a tragedy. My hope is to just bring a smile and let the people that I meet know the rest of us think about them every day and have not forgotten."
	Mary Kovalcin, Senior Operations Leader Southern California "My reason to go to the Gulf Coast can be summed up in two words: "to serve". I believe I am called to help others as I have been so blessed in my life and believe and support the KP mission for social outreach. Over the past 10 years, I have served my community (locally) through feeding families in motels and the homeless. The journey to the Gulf is a true honor to represent KP. "
	Kerry Lauth, GI Northern California "I am eternally grateful to all those who have helped me in my childhood and youth years. Now is my chance to give to others in need. "
	Severa Lynch, Product Communications Manager Mid-atlantic States "Just because the cameras stopped rolling, doesn't mean the problems are fixed. The people of New Orleans still need volunteers. I am honored and excited to help rebuild this amazing city. "
	Susan Mah, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Hawaii "As a therapist, I have the honor of working with people one-on-one towards the realization of their goals. It's always been a hope of mine to volunteer for a large-scale project that would help not only one individual, but an entire community. I believe strongly that "you are your brother's keeper.""
	Michael Marcus, Senior Large Group Strategy Consultant Colorado "I've spent a lot of time enjoying the music and culture of New Orleans and think the city is an American treasure. The people in this region have endured many hardships trying to repair their broken lives after the hurricanes and oil spill. It's very important for us to do all we can to preserve the city and people of New Orleans and to do everything in our power to help them rebuild their lives."
	Jennifer McCall, Administrative Assistant Ohio " I remember the images and stories after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and I'm glad to be a part of a team that will foster a new image and stories of survival, hope, and solidarity. "
	Margaret Murn, HR Director Program Offices "In the wake of the crisis in Japan, it becomes even more clear to me the need for us to reach out and continue helping communities in need. "
	Alex Mustille, Sr. Data Consultant Northern California "Planet Earth offers us such great bounty, yet all we've gathered can be wiped away in a momentary display of her incredible forces. What can we do in the face of such power but stand together as one people and help to rebuild our communities even stronger?"
	Amanda Orlandella, Registered Nurse Northern California "Knowing that the Gulf Coast is still recovering from the destruction caused by the hurricanes of 2005 motivates me to give my time and effort to aid in the rebuilding of the effected communities."
	Robert Riewerts, Physician Southern California "I am a pediatrician and have worked with Southern California Permanente Medical Group for more than 18 years. I love working at Kaiser Permanente and I look forward to sharing my talents and expertise as part of the team in New Orleans."
	Terry Rowland, TSR Northern California "I am honored to be part of the Gulf Coast crew and appreciate the chance to give back to a community. I feel like this opportunity is a gift to both me and my family. We have volunteered together as a family over the years and it rejuvinates the spirit."
	Ashleigh Rucker, Assistant Production Manager Southern California "Service has always been part of my life. I feel truly fortunate to be able to represent Kaiser Permanente while giving back to a community that is still so affected by such a devastating tragedy."
	Susan Savage, Assistant Program Coordinator Colorado "The more we achieve and amass in our life, the more we are obligated to help others. "
	Christine Schjelderup-Free, Pain Management Physician Northwest "Those affected by Hurricane Katrina have not been forgotten and I am proud to be representing Kaiser Permanente in helping rebuild communities."
	Frances Shockley, Physician Northern California "Having volunteered during Hurricane Andrew, I've seen first hand what damage Mother Nature can do. It was very humbling to see folks with all of their possessions in a shopping cart - as well as their children! I'm proud to work for a company that is so compassionate and generous. Let's get busy!"
	Yael Varnado-Rhodes, Anesthesiologist Mid-atlantic States "Having health and happiness are the fundamental building blocks for a good quality of life. If I can help make someone else's journey a little smoother and happier then I have been successful. "
	Alan Villatuya, Senior Public Affairs Administrator Northern California "During college, I went to New Orleans and fell in love with the area. The town has such a rich history and great architecture, and once I heard about the Gulf Rebuilding Project, it's something I've always wanted to do. I'm happy to finally have the opportunity to help out any way I can. "
	Tracy Warner, Senior Technical Consultant Northern California "It is a very rewarding experience to lend a hand to someone in need. It feels good to know that my work made someone else's life better. There is no better reward. Volunteering is good for the soul."
	Christopher Whitney, Technical Business Consultant Southern California "I was stationed in New Orleans in the Navy for three years before coming to Kaiser. In my Navy clinic, a civilian volunteer helped me every day. I remember her enthusiasm, her ability to accept any job and do it with full dedication. I want to help in the same way and make a difference when I return to New Orleans in April."
	Wendy Wong, Senior Management Assistant Hawaii "I visited New Orleans for the first time in January of 2010. The city is a diamond in the rough, still recovering from the devastation. Considering all they have been through, the people embody their own version of the "Aloha Spirit" and that's what captured my heart. NOLA is known as the jazz capital of the World and one of my favorite quotes is from composer Graham Collier, "The influence of a beautiful, helpful character is contagious and can revolutionize a whole town." I believe that volunteers are the glue and positive energy that hold communities in need together. By lending my hands and helping to make a difference in someones life is truly a blessing and I am honored to be apart of this opportunity."