Melissa Brinkman is a Leader in Giving whose inspiration for giving to United Way stems in part from knowing that the reach of United Way and the ability to pool her gift together with others produces continued results.
Growing up in Rochester and then on to a career in the hotel industry, Melissa, along with her husband and children, returned to a community she knew well. As Custom Alarm’s Director of Customer Services, Melissa is a leader in business and community activities.
“My giving probably began initially because of payroll deduction and I liked what United Way was doing. The ease of giving was important and the fact that my giving was used towards different opportunities. Fast forward, I like the mission of United Way. I began my gifts during my past employment in the hotel industry. I have been giving over 15 years.” Melissa explained.
Melissa’s interests and involvement with United Way has connected her with a new affinity group, Emerging Leaders in Giving. “Our goal is to inspire young givers to be involved, engaged and invested in the community in other ways than only giving dollars. It encourages giving time too.It is a chance to be engaged with like-minded people and to be involved in the community,” Melissa shared.
As a business woman, Melissa sees the various ways that business can make their overall support stronger and provide better impact. Businesses offering payroll deduction provides employees with a convenient means to contribute by spreading out a donation over a longer period of time.
Melissa’s involvement with United Way came about when a friend invited her to serve on an Allocations Panel (years ago) then as a campaign ambassador. For the past 5 years she has had a role in the campaign cabinet. But her earliest involvement began when her father, Leigh J Johnson, led by example. To Melissa, he is a role model for how business partners with United Way.
“My father has put an emphasis on running a strong campaign – be involved and make it easy for the employees to give and understand all the things United Way does as well as giving in other ways through time and talent.” Melissa said.
Melissa extends her community involvement to the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary and RAEDI and a new initiative, the Children’s Museum of Rochester.
Tags: Add new tag, leaders in giving, living it, melissa brinkman, volunteer
