MTV and United Way StormCorps

Base Camp Check-In Pics!

We've arrived!

Saturday 3pm - The Storm Corps participants are arriving from the airports.  Flying in to Gulfport-Biloxi you can see blue tarps on so many house roofs due to wind damage.  And many of the trees were bent horizontally due to the storm's winds.  The airport is about 4 miles from the coast, and it suffered some wind damage during the storms, but apparently opened about 2 weeks after the storms.

Driving from the airport to base camp we went along the coast in Gulfport.  It was devastating to see.  Large houses literally were left with just their foundations.  One apartment complex was half way there - half way gone.  The port at Gulfport apparently had an acquarium, which was pretty much blown away.  Apparently a seal at the acquarium ended up about 14 miles away post-storm.  It's hard to describe the devastation along the coast in words.

Storm Corps base camp is great.  Several military-type tents set up in the back of a church.  Everyone's wearing light blue Storm Corps shirts and is happy to be here.  Tonight we will have a welcome gathering and tomorrow is an orientation and tour of Biloxi.  We haven't quite figured out how to get digital pictures on the blog, but will try to do so soon.

More later tonight or tomorrow.  We're all glad to be here to volunteer for the week.  -Mike

Safe Travels!

We are so looking forward to seeing everyone Saturday in Biloxi!  Safe travels! 

Note that we may not get another posting up on this Blog until Sunday.  FedEX is generously donating laptops for the week and they will be up and running on Sunday.  Until then!

Meet William!

Storm Corps Participants: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

1. Name: William Fletcher Burkhardt
2. Nickname(s): Fletcher, Eyore
3. Hometown: Knoxville Tennessee.
4. College(s) attending/attended:  Will be attending Western State
5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: I have a love for the gulf coast and helping the awesome people down there out!
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: Stoked
7. What you are most excited about: Meeting new people. I love to meet people!
8. What you are least excited about: Nothing i am pumped about it all!
9. Things you want/plan to do in the future: Be mayor of Knoxville
10. Three adjectives that best describe you: Outgoing, Compassionate, Sociable
11. Personal motto or mantra: Take care of all your memories, for you cannot relive them.
12. Favorite Book: Bible
13. Favorite TV show: Iron Chef
14. Favorite Movie: Fight Club, Snatch

Anything else you'd like us to know about you? I am 18 i took a year off of school to play tennis and snowboard. I have 2 tattoos of Knoxville Tennessee. I love Knoxville. Someday i will be mayor of knoxville. I have been on 3 prior trips to the Mississippi Gulf coast! I can't wait to meet so many people. Also i am lookin forward to everyone asking if i am from the south! Cause i am and proud of it...... Anything else you want to know just ask me!

Updated info for Storm Corps Participants

UPDATED INFO 3/9/06 3:30pm EST:  Participants, please click on this link to review some new information to the Storm Corps Welcome Letter based on questions we have been receiving.  We'll be updating the Welcome Letter page on the blog between now and 8pm EST 3/10/06, so please check back again prior to then.  We are so excited to see each of you on Saturday!!

Meet Jay!

1. Name: Justin J. Lampert (pic right)
2. Nickname(s): Jay
3. Hometown: Crosby, ND
4. College(s) attending/attended: MSU-Bottineau, NDSU 5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: I never got the opportunity to go down to the gulf, due to being on Active duty status and in school, so I thought this would be the perfect chance to help out.
Since I live up in North Dakota, I feel a lot of people do not beleive it is there problem because we are not near it, but if we do not stick together, we might as well forget all that we have been taught, about us being the "Greatest Nation" with the best qualities.
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: I was excited, it will be cool to meet all of the people that were accepted as well as working beside them.
7. What you are most excited about: Meeting all of the poeple from around the country.
8. What you are least excited about: I fear what they show on TV is true.
9. Things you want/plan to do in the future: Continue my education and finish with a degree in Zoology, and then also continue in the military career and then just see where it will bring me.
10. Three adjectives that best describe you:Ambitious,meticulous and responsible.
11. Personal motto or mantra: "Live Life"
12. Favorite Book: "Black Hawk Down"
13. Favorite TV show: I like the reality shows.
14. Favorite Movie: Black Hawk Down, or Tears of the Sun.

Anything else you'd like us to know about you???  Here's your chance!
~ I guess I dont have anything else to say, I have a tough time telling people how good or bad I am, but I will just say that I am a hard worker and I am very easy to get along with. Thanks again for giving me this opportunity, the privledge is all mine. Have a good day

Meet Tory!

Storm Corps Participants: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

1. Name: Tory Jackson
2. Nickname(s):
3. Hometown: Henderson, NV
4. College(s) attending/attended: University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV)
5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: I saw that there was a need for volunteers in the Gulf Coast even though the problem isn't very widely talked about anymore where I live. My suitemate went to Tulane and had to evacuate, and my step brother was also out of school due to the hurricanes. I heard "alternative spring break" and knew that was the kind of spring break for me. It's hard to think about beaches and parties when I know that so many people are left without a home in my own country, so I applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member.
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: I was first really excited, because it took what seemed like forever to find out if I was accepted or not, but then the butterflies in my stomach kicked in like they always do.
7. What you are most excited about: I'm excited that I will be part of a team that helps out our fellow Americans in such a time of need and I am proud to know that I did my personal best to help out!
8. What you are least excited about: I am a little nervous about going to a far away place all by myself. I rarely go to the store by myself, yet alone another state!  But I am sure there will be someone else who is scared just like me, so hopefully I will find that person and we can calm each others nerves so we can completely focus on helping out.
9. Things you want/plan to do in the future: I plan to get my bachelor's degree in biochemistry and hopefully go onto medical school in the future.
10. Three adjectives that best describe you: hard-working, intelligent, and silly
11. Personal motto or mantra: "When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on."
12. Favorite Book: "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire"
13. Favorite TV show: "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"
14. Favorite Movie: "40 Year Old Virgin"
15. Anything else you’d like us to know about you???  Here’s your chance!: I love math so much that to most people it seems weird. I am a self proclaimed math nerd, but I don't think there is anything wrong with that. I am often times shy and quiet, but I have a heart of gold and so much love and help to give to this world, so hopefully this experience will open more doors for me to help even more people!

Meet John!

Storm Corps Participants: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

1. Name: John Sadler
2. Nickname(s):
3. Home town: Virginia Beach
4. College(s) attending: The College of William and Mary
5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: To help the people of the gulf. They are starting to lose hope in their nation and believe we have forgotten them. I want to change that.
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: I was a really excited, then a little nervous that I would mess something up.
7. What you are most excited about: Seeing someone move back into their home. I'm sure they will be greatly appreciated of us.
8. What you are least excited about: Flying
9. Things you want/plan to do in the future: Honestly, I'm still have not worked that out. Thus far I'm deciding between a political career or being a psychologist.
10. Three adjectives that best describe you: Funny, Dedicated, Stubborn (in a good way)
11. Personal motto or mantra: You only live once!
12. Favorite Book:
13. Favorite TV show: The Daily Show
14. Favorite Movie: Changes Too Much 

Meet Mandi!

Storm Corps Participants: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

1. Name: Mandi Woodruff
2. Nickname(s):  Mother Hen
3. Hometown: Locust Grove, GA
4. College(s) attending/attended: The University of Georgia (GO DAWGS!)
5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: As soon as I saw the promo for the trip on MTV in early February I knew that I had to be a part of it so I raced to the computer to apply!
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted:  Woo Hoo!!
7. What you are most excited about:  Meeting new people and really having the opportunity to be a part of this amazing opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people who deserve to feel as if they haven’t been forgotten. 
8. What you are least excited about:  Um…flying there! I’m not afraid of heights but I haven’t flown since I was 13 so I’ll be a little bit nervous.  Of course, with my driving skills, flying was definitely the smart way to go!
9. Things you want/plan to do in the future:  I plan to (and WILL) start my own teen magazine in the future and move to New York City. For now, I am in my freshman year at the amazing University of Georgia and will be interning like crazy and working my way up to my dream job.  I’m shooting for grad school at Columbia University but we’ll see what happens in the next four years!
10. Three adjectives that best describe you:  Funny (I hope…), CRAZY (In a good way…), and compassionate.
11. Personal motto or mantra:  Everything happens for a reason!  And everything in your life isn’t always in your control so don’t stress out about tiny details you have no power to change.
12. Favorite Book:  There are SO many…But I would have to pick The Poisonwood Bible
13. Favorite TV show:  Right now? At tie between Oprah and American Idol!
14. Favorite Movie:  I’ve seen Finding Nemo about 25 times…anything Disney!
15. Anything else you’d like us to know about you???  Here’s your chance!: I’m so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to help others out in Biloxi with so many other amazing people. It’s not everyday that kids my age really get to make a difference in a big way like this so I am ready to give my all to help out!

Meet Whitney!

Storm Corps Participants: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

1. Name: Whitney Thurston
2. Nickname(s):
3. Hometown: Old Town, Maine
4. College(s) attending/attended: University of Maine
5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: To help make a difference in someone's life
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: I thought this whole thing was probably an elaborate hoax to get my money.. or make me look like an idiot haha
7. What you are most excited about:  getting dirty!
8. What you are least excited about: being away from my boyfriend, family, and M-A
9. Things you want/plan to do in the future: become a professional musician, teach music in South America
10. Three adjectives that best describe you: ambitious, open minded, slightly crazy
11. Personal motto or mantra: Hello. My name in Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.
12. Favorite Book: A Prayer for Owen Meany, The Brothers Karamazov
13. Favorite TV show: anything on the history channel... yeah i'm a geek
14. Favorite Movie: American Beauty, The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
15. Anything else you’d like us to know about you???  Here’s your chance: i don't like eggs :)

Meet Ryan!

Storm Corps Participants: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

1. Name: Ryan A Baggs
2. Nickname:
3. Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin
4. College(s) attending/attended: University of Wisconsin Madison (12/05)
5. Why you applied to be a Storm Corps Team Member: To make a positive contribution to those areas affected by Hurrican Katrina
6. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: Exuberant Glee
7. What you are most excited about: Helping others while experiencing a new part of the world.
8. What you are least excited about: Rumors of lots of bugs
9. Things  you want/plan to do in the future: Teach high schools social studies in Philadelphia starting next fall with Teach For America and simultaneously earn a Masters degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Possibly attending law school or remaining in the field of education after those two years.
10. Three adjectives that best describe you:
11. Personal motto or mantra: You Must Be The Change You Wish to See in the World
12. Favorite Book: "A People's history of the United States" by
Howard Zinn
13. Favorite TV show: Seinfeld
14. Favorite Movie: Office Space

Meet Kiren!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Kiren Bansal
2. Nickname(s): KB, Kay
3. Hometown: Born in England; Raised in Southern California
4. Where you live now: North East, Ohio
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: Less traffic and beautiful natural environment!
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: University of Southern California, B.A. Environmental Studies/Public Policy & Management

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of Summit County  (Akron, Ohio)
8. Job title: Senior Resource Development Director
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Helping to establish our local Youth Initative- an effort to inspire youth to get involved with philanthropic efforts at a young age!
10. What first brought you to United Way: I was searching for a non-profit position which would have an efficient and broad impact in the community. My search led me to UNITED WAY and the rest is history! 
11. Why you stay with United Way: I have a passion for non-profit work and I simply love United Way's mission to improve lives. The relationships we build and the lives we change through our work is an amazing honor and rare opportunity that exists uniquly with United Way.

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: It was a wonderful opportunity to help lead young volunteers in making a real "hands on" difference in the impacted areas of the Gulf Coast region. Perfect fit with our Youth Initiative program!! 
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: I was absolutely thrilled to hear I would have an opportunity to help shape the experience for the youth participating, as a Team Leader! Overall, extremely excited to be a part of such a wonderful program- okay okay I am actually jumping out of my skin at the moment!!!
14. What you are most excited about: Everything about this program excites me! From the partnership with thinkMTV, to the wonderful impact this will have on the many people involved. At this moment I am extremely excited to meet my fellow team leaders and the youth we will be engaging throughout the program.
15. What you are least excited about: Bed Bugs. Hoping that the little critters will respect my privacy.
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Remove a tree from the ground with my bare hands ;)   OR Lead, Organize, Motivate, and help come up with Plan B when Plan A flops.
17. What you would rather not have to do: Go hunting for food
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:I hope to make an impact in the local communities, help inspire and bring hope to the people in the Gulf Coast region and….  entertain my team!

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: I have mastered the art of text messaging, having a phone conversation, emailing, talking, walking AND chewing gum all at the same time.
20. Hobbies: Drawing/Painting, Music, Theater/Arts, Dance, Volunteering, Traveling, Learning to Knit, the list goes on!!
21. People and/or animals you live with:  My grumpy cat named Penny.
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: PACK!! Complete assigned projects in the Gulf Coast with success!
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Travel to Egypt, India, Africa, and California not necessarily in that order.
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: Optimistic, Creative, Passionate
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: Pessimistic, Boring, Un-motivated
26. Personal motto or mantra: When life throws you a lemon, make lemonade; Everything happens for a reason.
27. What you are most proud of: Making a difference through my daily work at United Way!

Favorites
28. Food: Pad Thai, Bread, Italian food, mangos, Dr. Pepper, chips & salsa, and vegetarian food!
29. Book: Peace is Every Step, Little Women, Janet Evanovich Books, The Notebook
30. TV show: Friends reruns, MTV, Realworld, What Not to Wear, Lost, Grey's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives!
31. Movie: Aladdin, Top Gun, Two Can Play that Game, The Rock, Kiss the Girls, The Mask of Zorro, Nightmare on Elm Street, The Notebook, Brown Sugar, Lagaan, Bend It Like Beckham
32. Quote: "The price of greatness is responsibility"- W. Churchill  AND  "We can do no great things; only small things with great love"-Mother Teresa.

Anything else you want to share? This can be fun, personal, medical, work related, etc. Basically anything else you want us to know about you. Can't wait to meet everyone- have safe travels!!

Meet Lauren!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Lauren Eve Bonner
2. Nickname(s): Lulu
3. Hometown: New York City
4. Where you live now: Washington, DC
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: Seeing the Washington Memorial every day
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: BA in Government, Harvard University

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of America
8. Job title: Best Practices Consultant
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Transformation Diaries
10. What first brought you to United Way: Fate
11. Why you stay with United Way: Best job in the world

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: I love doing this kind of work and I really wanted to be a part of the relief efforts in the Gulf
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: Thrilled
14. What you are most excited about: Everything
15. What you are least excited about: Not being able to wear heels
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Roofing, planning an event
17. What you would rather not have to do: Sing
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps: I hope that we all leave with a deeper understanding of how to give back in a meaningful way and how to spread that understanding to other people.

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: Archery
20. Hobbies: ?????
21. People and/or animals you live with: My roommate Margaret
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Travel to Morocco
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Be First Lady
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: Outgoing,
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: Shy, illiterate & pessimistic
26. Personal motto or mantra: Why not?
27. What you are most proud of:

Favorites
28. Food: Steak, risotto & lots of dessert
29. Book: Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim
30. TV show: Lost, 24
31. Movie: Lost in Translation, A Lot Like Love, Spy Game, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes & Bad Boys 2
32. Quote: "To laugh often and much;/ To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;/To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; /To appreciate beauty; to find the best in others;/To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;/To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded" - Emerson

Meet Tracey!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Tracey Holmes
2. Nickname(s): Trae
3. Hometown: Waynesboro, Virginia
4. Where you live now: Springfield, Virginia
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: Not too big and not too small…just right!
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: James Madison University, BS Communications

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of America
8. Job title: NFL Partnership Director
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: NFL/United Way Advertising Series, Thanksgiving Day Halftime Show
10. What first brought you to United Way: I wanted to save the world, of course. :)
11. Why you stay with United Way: Because I still want to save the world--even if my view of it has gotten a lot smaller.

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: Because I want to see it for myself and be able to tell this story from experience.
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: Fear--I'm not a camper.
14. What you are most excited about: Meeting the participants--I read a lot of applications. They're amazing people.
15. What you are least excited about: "roughing it"
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: When we're finished, I want it to be totally obvious we were there.  Count on me to make sure the job gets done.
17. What you would rather not have to do: Anything to do with mold.
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:A story to tell.

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: I give a pretty good shoulder massage.
20. Hobbies: I read chick books and watch chick flicks. I can spend hours shopping with my friends. (I consider decorating a hobby.) I like to ride the bike path by my house or play with the Koi in the backyard. Last summer, I grew some beautiful tomatoes and managed not to kill my Gerber daisies (major accomplishment). I listen to self-help CDs on long rides and talk radio on short ones. In January, I started working out in the exercise room at work and miraculously, I'm still doing it.
21. People and/or animals you live with: My husband Mark, three children (Aisha, Michael and Makayla), our dog Jellybean and about 65 Koi--some 30 inches long.   
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Complete the curriculum for my volunteer project called Jumpin' Jills. It's an after-school program for girls designed to help reverse the growing epidemic of childhood obesity.
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Later, much later, my husband and I will move to the country and open a Bed & Breakfast.
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: hard working, loyal, empathetic
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: outdoorsy, outgoing, sell out
26. Personal motto or mantra: It is what it is.
27. What you are most proud of:My family

Favorites
28. Food: Potato chips (don't tell anyone), baked salmon, spinach, anything with cheese on it
29. Book: A Time to Kill, The Purpose Driven Life, The Secret Life of Bees
30. TV show: 24, House, American Idol, Law & Order SVU, Commander in Chief
31. Movie: The Color Purple, 50 First Dates
32. Quote: What I know for sure is that what you give comes back to you. Oprah Winfrey

Meet Nicole!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Nicole Gantz
2. Nickname(s): I don't really have one… closest is probably "Nic"
3. Hometown: Ashland, Ohio
4. Where you live now: Ashburn, Virginia, a suburb of DC, but soon moving to the Annapolis, MD area
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: the jogging/biking trail that is about 30 feet from my front door and the delicious Indian retaurant 5 mins away, where they know our names and our order b/f we even sit down.
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: Miami University (Ohio); B.A. International Studies & B.A. Political Science

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of America, Alexandria, VA
8. Job title: Manager of Field Support & Engagement/Manager of  Born Learning Enhanced Campaign
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: My current work with contributing to the creation, development and implementation of the national Born Learning Enhanced Site project.  It's been extremely challenging (both physically - I'm talking long hours and lots of weekend work --  and mentally) but also very rewarding to see our work help transform United Ways, and help contribute to positive improvements in the lives of children all over the country. Early childhood isn't my area of expertise but I've learned a ton - which is exciting professionally, but personally considering I want to have children some day!
10. What first brought you to United Way: Was recruited actually, from my position as national partnership director at Youth Venture, because of a really successful partnership model I helped to launch.
11. Why you stay with United Way: Challenging work, opportunity to meet and work with a wide variety of diverse communities across the country, and mostly b/c I believe in the power of UW to help contribute to community change.

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: Well, I have sorta been involved in the project since the beginning, b/c of my previous experience at Youth Venture.  So I've been committed from the beginning.  I think this is a really unique opportunity for the United Way to work with a non-traditional target audience and to leave young people with a lasting impression about the role United Way can play in communities.   Selfishly, I think this is going to be a really wonderful and inspiring week. 
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: Thrilled!  I look forward to sharing this experience with all of you!
14. What you are most excited about:   I am really looking forward to getting out from behind a computer and doing some physical work  - I am excited about sweating in the middle of the day! I am excited to meet others who are passionate about rebuilding/building communities.  I am looking forward to connecting to people face-to-face.  It will be nice to see first-hand the real difference we'll make.  Finally, I'm looking forward to meeting the young people, the other team leaders and tapping into some of my skills/strengths that I don't get to use day-to-day sitting behind a computer.  I am a realtionship/people person, so I can't wait to meet all of the wonderful people I've been hearing/reading about.
15. What you are least excited about: Well, I've been on business travel for the past three weeks, so I am missing my own bed, shower, schedule, coffee -- but this is the week I've most been looking forward to…I'm not really concerned with the shower shortage, or the housing (or lack thereoff) issues.  Probably least excited about the work that will pile up while I'm incommunicado. 
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Anything really.  I don't have allergies, am happy to sweat and get dirty, am willing to take on responsibility, cook, clean, etc.
17. What you would rather not have to do: clean toliets ???
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:Memorable and positive experience, new personal/professional connections, new ideas for how UW can connect with young leaders, refreshing perspective on our work and the collective and individual roles we can play in recovery efforts

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: I'm a pretty good cook.   
20. Hobbies: Cooking, Running, Yoga, Reading
21. People and/or animals you live with: My husband, Jonathan Murray and our dog Malone, a giant and rambunctious airedale terrier
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: write more, read more, enjoy my friends and family more… We’re planning a trtip to NYC soon. 
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: I'd like to run another marathon…I would really love to learn how to surf.  In the next few years, we'd like to start a family
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: energetic, curious, motivated
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: quiet, mean-sprited, lazy
26. Personal motto or mantra:   You have to live life juicy enough to tell a good story in the end.
27. What you are most proud of:. What a high pressure question… I am typically proud of myself after I've finished a road race… no matter how short/long - it always feels good to push yourself to see how far your physical limits are.  It builds confidence to know that you can perservere with the right attitude and "stick-to-it-edness" even if all you feel like doing is walking or stopping for a rest. 

Favorites
28. Food: Indian, Ice Cream, Cereal and Cheese - I love all food, I don't discriminate - except for onions,  I do loathe onions
29. Book: I can't pick just one - it depends on my mood.  How about what I'm reading right now:  The Known World, There are No Children Here, The Time Traveler's Wife (I'm never reading one book at a time)
30. TV show: I don’t watch a bunch of TV, but I am a fan of Grey's Anatomy… and I must confess i do like some reality TV.  I love SportsCenter, especially during college football season.
31. Movie: I don't really have one.  I don't like to watch movies more than once.  I guess if I had to pick a movie that I really liked recently:  The Constant Gardener.
32. Quote: You can destroy your now by worrying about tomorrow.  Janis Joplin

Anything else you want to share? This can be fun, personal, medical, work related, etc. Basically anything else you want us to know about you. I love music - all kinds, but I especially love classic rock.  I secretly wish I was a stand up comedian or a singer.

Meet Ben!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Benjamin Charles Chin
2. Nickname(s): Ben
3. Hometown: New York City, NY
4. Where you live now: Los Angeles, CA
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: The beach and sun, of course!
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: BS in Business Management, SUNY Geneseo

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of Greater Los Angeles
8. Job title: Development Officer
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Changing the way people think about United Way
10. What first brought you to United Way: United Way of America Community Fellowship and Volunteering at Big Brothers/Big Sisters
11. Why you stay with United Way: Staying close to the community

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: I wanted to make a difference outside of my own community and I'm lucky enough to do this with the Gulf coast region.
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: "I get to help the disaster area in the Gulfcoast by leading other young people, fantastic!"
14. What you are most excited about: Meeting the 100 eager participants
15. What you are least excited about: Being away from my girlfriend, Renee, for a week
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Organize and coordinate the daily jobs and activities, get all participants pumped up to help those in need in the Gulf Coast.
17. What you would rather not have to do: Making sure everyone is in bed.
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:Build leadership skills, make a difference and have fun!

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: Teach salsa dancing
20. Hobbies: Travel, Working-out, dancing, movies, reading, eatting, people watching
21. People and/or animals you live with: Girlfriend, Renee Linares and little Chato, our bishon frise
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Get engaged, get back into dance, eat a lot
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Brian Gallagher's job!
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: Fun-loving, sarcastic, open-minded!
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: Boring, intolerant, full (I'm hungry!)
26. Personal motto or mantra: Live life to it's fullest!
27. What you are most proud of:Being a good friend and the desire to make more friends!

Favorites
28. Food: Real chinese food, curry, ribs and fried chicken
29. Book: An Orphan for Nebraska
30. TV show: Globetrekker
31. Movie: Before Sunrise
32. Quote: Smile, a smile will make you young forever. -Fortune Cookie

Anything else you want to share? This can be fun, personal, medical, work related, etc. Basically anything else you want us to know about you. I feel like I just wrote a personal ad.

Meet Jason!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Jason Daniels
2. Nickname(s): Furly, Furley Jr., & Furball
3. Hometown: Toledo, Ohio
4. Where you live now: The land of Oz (Oh… Toledo)
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: You can get anywhere in 20 minutes
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: Bachelor of Arts in Communication Television/Radio Broadcasting

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of Greater Toledo
8. Job title: Development Officer
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Whenever I am able to help someone connect to the many services we offer
10. What first brought you to United Way: Destiny!!!
11. Why you stay with United Way: I believe 100% in what we stand for and what we do for our community

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: I have wanted to travel to the Gulf Coast to help rebuild the community for some time now and when the opportunity presented itself, I applied.
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: My stomach just started churning even more.
14. What you are most excited about: Being able to help rebuild the community and working with such a diverse group of individuals from all across the country.
15. What you are least excited about: I don't think Starbucks will be nearby when I need a White Chocolate Mocha!
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Mobilize a large group of individuals, communicate an effective plan, boost morale and teambuild.
17. What you would rather not have to do: Eat prepackaged food.
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:A great life-changing experience.

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: I am a mean cook,
20. Hobbies: I love to read, cook, travel and watch movies. 
21. People and/or animals you live with: My dog Boscoe (German Shepherd) and my plants.
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Travel to San Juan Puerto Rico.
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Design and Build my own home.
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: Fun, realist and intuitive.
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: Lazy, boring and non-ambitious.
26. Personal motto or mantra: Laugh more and live life to the fullest!

Favorites
28. Food: Chocolate Chip Cookies with walnuts or pecans (Panera Bread and Saks Fifth Avenue have the best) and Gummi Bears.
29. Book:   Paradise by Toni Morrison
30. TV show: Friends, The Apprentice and The Price is Right --Bob Barker's been around forever--gotta love him.
31. Movie: Crash, Color Purple and Madagascar
32. Quote: God can dream a bigger dream for me, than I could dream for myself. --Oprah

Meet Jon!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Jon Beekman
2. Nickname(s): Beek
3. Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
4. Where you live now: Arlington, VA
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: Fireworks on the 4th of July with the monuments in the background, Annual Cherry Blossom Festival
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: Arizona State University (B.S. - Economics, Finance, B.A. - Spanish), London Guildhall University (UK), Universidad de Granada (Spain), Universidad de Belgrano (Argentina), ITAM (Mexico)

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of America
8. Job title: Manager - Business Development, Finance and Technology
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Making the people around me laugh on a daily basis (yes - usually at me…).  I have enjoyed helping the organization expand its usage of webinars as a key communication tool, and am proud that in so doing, we have saved many donor dollars.
10. What first brought you to United Way: I originally started working with Fondo Unido, the Mexico City United Way Affiliate while I was on a Fulbright Grant.  I later attended the International World Assembly in Puerto Rico, where I met Brook Manville and was recruited to come to UWA for just the summer… and here I am 18 months later.
11. Why you stay with United Way: I love what I do.  I like the people I work with, the projects I work on, and the flexibility to continually grow as a young professional.  I like knowing that our work impacts many and has a multiplied effect on communities around the US.

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: I am so excited to have the opportunity to work with college students on this project and get involved in direct hands-on service again.  I feel like we can sometimes become a bit detached from the people and communities that our work eventually benefits when we spend all of our time behind a desk.  This week is going to be a great way to reconnect with the "improved lives" piece of the mission of United Way and I am looking forward to helping craft a great leadership development opportunity for all of the participants.
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: Happy happy, joy joy!
14. What you are most excited about: Working with young, enthusiastic future leaders.
15. What you are least excited about: Having to come back behind my desk after the week is over.
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Helping people forget that they really, really need a shower.
17. What you would rather not have to do: I am going to steal Jen's response: "Wake up super early.  I am so a night owl.  B\ut, it goes without saying that we'll have to be up early!"
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:I want to walk away from the program knowing that the participants have an entirely different perspective on what it means to be a young professional in the United Way System.  I want to leave Storm Corps excited and energized by the progress we made and by the lives we touched while we were in the Gulf Coast.

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: My sense of humor and energy.  I also like to think of myself as McGyver Jr.
20. Hobbies: Travel, travel, and travel.  I also like to travel, hike, play sports, watch movies, write business plans, read good books, learn about new gadgets, camp, etc.
21. People and/or animals you live with: Three roommates - unfortunately no pets.
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Going to Ethiopia in April - hope to circumnavigate the globe on a six month backpacking adventure sometime within the next few years.
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Own my own business.
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: Funny, Adventurous, Creative
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: Boring, Timid, Technophobic
26. Personal motto or mantra: "If you don't do it this year, you'll only be one year older when you do" - Warren Miller
27. What you are most proud of:Realizing that investment banking was not my calling in life, and making the switch to a career that I find exciting and fufilling.

Favorites
28. Food: All Mexican food, Chicken Panag, pizza, Marshmallow Peeps.
29. Book: My trusty travel books, Good to Great, Lord of the Rings
30. TV show: 24, MXC - Most Extreme Elimination Challenge, Amazing Race, McGyver, A-Team
31. Movie: Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones, School of Rock, Matrix, Fox and the Hound, Napoleon Dynamite
32. Quote: "You know, like nunchuck skills, bowhunting skills, computer hacking skills... Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills. "  or "Tina, you fat lard, come get some DINNER!... Tina, eat. Food. Eat the FOOD!"

Meet Ira!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Ira Murray
2. Nickname(s): Ira
3. Hometown: Columbia, SC
4. Where you live now: Jackson, MS
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: Small city, so networking is easier
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: B.S. in Business Admin (Florida A&M Univ); M.Ed. in Community Development (Vanderbilt)

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of the Capital Area (Jackson, MS)
8. Job title: Community Fellow (UWA)
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Helped over 250 Katrina evacuee households get furniture for new homes
10. What first brought you to United Way: opportunity to do work in communities
11. Why you stay with United Way: See #10

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: I want to encourage others to help out as much as possible with rebuilding people's lives
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: How long do I have to sleep in a tent?
14. What you are most excited about: Meeting the participants and those who we are helping
15. What you are least excited about: I’m going to miss the season finale of 'Flavor of Love'
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Speak to a large group of people
17. What you would rather not have to do: nothing
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:A powerful experience that can motivate and inspire others

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: I can do freestyle poetry
20. Hobbies: Reading, exercising, watching TV, people watching, deep conversation
21. People and/or animals you live with: n/a
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: I take things one day at a time
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Travel to Africa or South America
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: energetic, honest, fun-loving
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: arrogant, loud-mouthed, lazy
26. Personal motto or mantra: "Don't stop 'til you get enough" - Michael Jackson
27. What you are most proud of: Never been arrested!

Favorites
28. Food: Spaghetti
29. Book: Egyptian Yoga
30. TV show: Chappelle's Show
31. Movie: right now, 40 Year Old Virgin

Anything else you want to share? This can be fun, personal, medical, work related, etc. Basically anything else you want us to know about you. I'm currently looking for UW positions in community impact.  If anyone knows of any openings, let me know!

Meet Tim!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
1. Name: Tim Loftus
2. Nickname(s): Canuck
3. Hometown: Toronto, Ontario
4. Where you live now: Charlotte, North Carolina
5. Favorite thing about where you live now: sunshine, year round
6. College(s) attended and degree(s) received: UNCC Business Undergrad, Queens University MBA

Work
7. United Way where you work: United Way of Central Carolinas
8. Job title: Relationship Manager, Resourse Development (Campaign!!)
9. Work accomplishment you are most proud of: Storm Corps!!!!
10. What first brought you to United Way: A good friend, and the desire to be an agent of change in the community.
11. Why you stay with United Way: Long-term, large-scale solutions to our society's challenges, that's good stuff!

Storm Corps
12. Why you applied to be a Team Leader: I couldn't pass up an opportunity to provide hands-on help to the people on the Gulf Coast, and to help motivate others to do the same.
13. First reaction when you found out you were accepted: I felt honored, and completely excited!!
14. What you are most excited about: Making a difference.
15. What you are least excited about: I'm not too excited about seeing the destruction up close and personal.
16. What you could step up and do really well if needed: Lead by example, motivate others, and, cook a mean dinner!
17. What you would rather not have to do: Take a shower.
18. What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:The confidence that we are helping inspire a generation of young adults. This generation will change the world with kindness and humility. My hope is that this project helps to spark the fire .

Fun
19. Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: Campfire cooking, I whip up some seriously gourmet style camp food.
20. Hobbies: Mountain biking, cycling, hiking, climbing, and anything other outdoor activity.
21. People and/or animals you live with: Nope, I live with my bikes and my plants.
22. Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Visit family in Canada, New Zealand, and Hong Kong
23. Things you want/plan to do in a while: Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, Hike the Appalachian Trail, and start a family.
24. Three adjectives that best describe you: Adventurous, Outgoing, Friendly
25. Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you: narrow-minded, passive, boring
26. Personal motto or mantra: Be the change you want to see in the world (Gandhi).
27. What you are most proud of:Humility

Favorites
28. Food: sushi, and anything on the menu at an Indian restaurant.
29. Book: It's Not About the Bike (Lance Armstrong), Wild at Heart (John Eldridge)
30. TV show: SportsCenter.., and everything that comes on PBS
31. Movie: Crash
32. Quote: "Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people" - Elenor Roosevelt

Meet Jenn!

Storm Corps Team Leaders: Getting to Know You Questionnaire

The Basics
Name: Jenn Novesky
Nickname(s):  JNo (like J-Lo, get it?)
Hometown:  Staten Island, NY
Where you live now: outside Washington, DC in Alexandria, VA
Favorite thing about where you live now:   I'm a political junkie, so I'd have to say being able to drive by the U.S. Capitol practically every day/
College(s) attended and degree(s) received:  SUNY Cortland, B.A. in Political Science and Communications Studies

Work
United Way where you work: United Way of America, Alexandria, VA
Job title: Senior Associate, Public Policy
Work accomplishment you are most proud of:  I think that, overall in my career, I'd have to say actually getting jobs in my field -- getting an opportunity to work for a U.S. Senator, fundraise for a national campaign, lobby on GLBT issues as well as those issues important to United Way and communities all over the U.S.
What first brought you to United Way:  Actually, I didn't know much about the United Way, other than at my previous job, I gave money through the workplace campaign.  But more and more, I realized (especially after the 2004 elections) that EVERYTHING starts within a community.  And I decided I wanted to work impacting communities.
Why you stay with United Way:  The easy answer is that they do good work.  I mean, no matter what the department, everyone within the United Way system is connected by the want to actually do something,  That's why I am so glad I not only get to work there, but that I have this opportunity to partake in Storm Corps.

Storm Corps
Why you applied to be a Team Leader:  Short answer is that I wanted to help, like I am sure so many of us do.  The long of it?  I want to understand -- I can't imagine being without a home for 6 days, let alone 6 months or in the case of Hurricane Ivan, years.  And I am not saying that I will ever fully understand, but I think taking the time to work 24/7 for a week is putting my money where my mouth is, so to speak.  Plus, I loved the work I did working with my peers on my college campus (way back when) -- I was an RA, Orientation Assistant, Judicial Review Board Justice and in tons of organizations.  I thought I would be a good fit (and that it would be fun too!)
First reaction when you found out you were accepted:  Elated!
What you are most excited about:  I think this is a great way to lend a hand and be able to gain some first-hand knowledge to bring back to United Way of America as well as to my community.
What you are least excited about: Hearing there will be very few showers for 150 of us!!!!
What you could step up and do really well if needed:  I am a great communicator.  Heck, it was one of my majors!  This is going to be a long (yet fulfilling) week.  I can be there at any time--day or night.  I am good for a joke or two as well.  But if anyone needs anything (an ear, a shoulder -- you get the idea), don't hesitate to come ask!
What you would rather not have to do: Wake up super early.  I am so a night owl.  B\ut, it goes without saying that we'll have to be up early!
What you are hoping to get out of Storm Corps:I am going into this without expectations so that the entire experience will be that much more fulfilling! 

Fun
Secret – or not so secret - talent(s) you are willing to share: I can touch my tongue to my nose AND my chin.  Special, aren't I?
Hobbies: reading, going out dancing, working out, shopping...
People and/or animals you live with:  My fiance, Nicole and our two cats, Aimee and JoJo
Things you want/plan to do in the near future: Planning a wedding is one thing but actually living to tell about it is another!  I hope September gets here quick!
Things you want/plan to do in a while: Buy a home!  We just moved (again) and rent is way toooo much.  Plus, we'll want some un-furry kids some day...
Three adjectives that best describe you: funny, caring, outgoing
Three adjectives that definitely would not describe you:  introverted, morning person, rich
Personal motto or mantra: "Live every day as if it were your last, because someday it will be."  -John Lennon
What you are most proud of: I guess where I am in life.  I've got a good head on my shoulders, a great relationship. and I am doing what I love to do.  Things could have gone an entirely different way but I kept focused and here I am!

Favorites
Food:  I am NOT picky but if I had to narrow it down, Thai and Italian
Book:  ONLY ONE???  That's like asking a parent to chose their favorite child!  She's Come Undone, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Life of Pi, Good in Bed, anything by James Patterson, anything by Shel Silverstein, White Teeth, The Pigman, A Separate Peace
TV show: Law & Order, Gillmore Girls, The L Word, Las Vegas, The Cosby Show, FoodTv, The Daily Show
Movie:  Mr. Holland's Opus, Boys on the Side, Bound, Chutney Popcorn, Shawshank Redemption, Miss Congeniality, Crash
Quote: "A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."  -Margaret Mead

Anything else you want to share? This can be fun, personal, medical, work related, etc. Basically anything else you want us to know about you.
Well, I am gay, in case you didn't read the obvious answers above.  Also, even though I love cats, I love dogs too.  Even though I tend to joke a lot,  I also have a serious side.  And, I think that's it.  If you want to know something, my life is an open book so just ask!

Meet Mike!

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