In what ways have you been involved with United Way?
I became a board member with United Way in November 2019. Before that, I had always donated through my employers and loved knowing my dollars stayed local to help people in our community through the many wonderful programs in our area.
Being on the UW Board, I have been the Co-Chair of the 2020 Campaign. Unfortunately due to Covid, many changes happened that year and we were unable to have the events which were planned. I have also helped with the Equity Challenge and bringing an interactive, inclusive mural to Bourbonnais (the first mural in Bourbonnais!). I also help with the Development Committee. It has been a crazy time for all of us, but the group of people we have at our local United Way are amazing and have adapted so creatively and seamlessly.
What inspired you to become involved with United Way?
I truly do love our community and the people in it. By creating opportunities for those around us, we all succeed in the long run. I love that United Way brings awareness to programs that may otherwise not be utilized by residents. Teaming up as a Board Member with UW has opened my eyes to even more programs that I hadn't heard of in our area. Sharing resources and promoting them is so essential to connecting people in our community with the many programs United Way helps to support.
What aspect of United Way's work do you connect with most?
Connecting the community by coming together for the 'bigger picture'.
Why do you think it's important to support United Way's mission?
United Way has been a staple in our community for over 80 years. The programs they help support are incredibly important and have helped so many people throughout the years. It is vital for all of us to continue to support these programs, in order to help connect the people in our community with any resources they may need to live a happier, healthier life.
More About Amanda Martinez:
My dream of becoming a Broadway star may be just that. A dream! So naturally, I'm doing the next best thing, which is... Banking. Who knew? I have been in banking since 2002, and have met so many amazing people throughout the years working for community banks. I am a Commercial Loan Officer, and also do Business Development, for Federated Bank in Bradley.
I have lived in the Kankakee County area for most of my life, and I love spending time with my family. Seeing the personalities in my children continue to grow and develop is a daily hobby of mine. One day, I am truly in awe of their love for others and their hilariously different personalities. The next day, I am not sure whose kids are living in my house and need to be picked up. Anyway, I plan on getting back to my creative side a bit more in the near future, by writing and/or vlogging about the lessons I've learned from being a mom and bonus-mom, to help others in their journeys as well.