Todd Kiesbuy knows first-hand how United Way reaches into the community to help people in need. He has been contributing to United Way through his company's payroll deduction program for 9 years, first in Spokane and now in Coeur d'Alene. At Avista Utilities, he is a CPC, Customer Project Coordinator, meeting with customers that request gas or electric service, and designing the work to commercial or residential property developments. When asked to take on the responsibility of coordinating this year's Avista Employee Giving Campaign, he was the perfect choice and immediately said yes.

Along with his co-coordinator, Heather Bruns, the team spared no time in creating a fabulous and fun way for their employees to invest in the United Way Community Care Fund which offers solutions to help those less fortunate than themselves. A Breakfast Kickoff on the first day was cooked by Kiesbuy's team and the giving began! In addition to the employee payroll deductions, a Silent Auction in the building ran for three days. There were 22-25 items, donated by employees themselves or by local businesses, including concert tickets and basketball seats. The special activities raised over $1200 and 90-110 employees participated in the giving effort.

"Todd has a ton of passion and energy for the Employee Giving Campaign," shares Co-Chair Bruns. He made it happen on so many levels, from procuring prizes to championing the message of United Way." Bruns expressed that it was difficult to find the right project that would suit the call center. "It is hard for employees to get away from phones and maintain constant coverage. The special events and auction allowed for flexibility in participation and got our employees excited about giving. I was lucky to work with such an awesome and professional partner who utilized his network of contacts in the community. Remarkably, the most coveted prize was the employee parking spots that really sparked a little friendly employee competition."

"I was asked to volunteer," claims Kiesbuy. "But I would have done it anyway. Knowing the need in community and having lived here 38 years, it really opens your eyes. I see the need that Kootenai county residents have and I am fortunate to have a job that is stable. Through the campaign, Avista employees have a way to pass along some of their good fortune and give back to the community to those that are less fortunate. Payroll deduction makes it so easy."

When asked to share a memorable moment about volunteering with United Way, Kiesbuy recalled, "For one of our employees, it was a big deal to volunteer at the Hospice House, as she had a family member stay there before their passing. It helped her heal. She spent a full day working on the landscaping and put a spring back in her step to give to an organization that had given her so much."

"As long as I have been employed," continues Kiesbuy, "Avista has always supported employee volunteering time and monetary pledges. Employees are encouraged to participate in the United Way Community Day of Caring, and 'giving back' spans through Coats for Kids, school supplies collection, and more. It is a company-wide philosophy."

Community volunteering is an important aspect of the work at Avista. During the Day of Caring, crews repaired a wheelchair ramp and gutters at St. Vincent de Paul. On many occasions, there are opportunities for Avista clients to give recycled wood from job sites to ElderHelp of North Idaho to be used as firewood for seniors in our community. Kiesbuy shares, "Selfishly, it feels good! Employees know they have accomplished these things to help improve the lives of someone else, which is the United Way mission."

Volunteer Opportunity:

Veterans Stand Down Needs YOU!

A one-day Stand Down for Veterans who need help or are homeless is being planned for Saturday, May 10, 2014. This event is designed to bridge many of the barriers between service providers and recipients. Primary emphasis is placed on the creation of an event in which homeless Veterans are treated with respect and given the opportunity to relax, interact with peers and volunteers while receiving much needed services.

This year the event will be held at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds at 4056 N Government Way, Coeur d'Alene, with many services being offered. In addition to federal programs and services, the committee is especially hoping to include haircuts, veterinary help, and bicycle repairs.

If you would like to have a table to support this event as a vendor, or provide a specific service, please contact Eric Swanbeck at St. Vincent de Paul, (208) 704-0548. If you would like to volunteer on the committee or day of the event, please visit www.kootenaiunitedway.org, click on the "VOLUNTEER" link to GET CONNECTED to our Volunteer Center, or contact Jeanette Laster at United Way of Kootenai County, (208) 667-8112 x 101.