Q: You have a long history of being involved in local nonprofits from the American Diabetes Association to the National MS Society ofMaryland. How and when did you first start getting involved?

After graduating from SU with a BA in Communication Arts in 1989, I decided to stay on the Shore and worked in the media industry for seven years, and then as an electrician. Though I enjoyed the work, I found that I was not getting a chance to share my creativity or truly help others. My passion for performing arts fueled my founding of the Children’s Theater of Delmarva. This turned out to be a wonderful outlet for me, and I continue to volunteer my time to make this venture successful.
I did, however, need to make a living, so I took a paid position at the MS Society. Five years later, I upgraded to the American Diabetes Association, and I now find myself in an incredible position as the Director of Fund Development at Women Supporting Women.

Q: What is it like being the first “Man Supporting Women”?
It is an honor to be a part of Women Supporting Women. I have always been impressed with their grass-roots outreach and professional work to help those in our community. And when my wife and I experienced their services first hand, I found an even deeper appreciation for their work. I feel the staff that is currently in place is the best ever, and I am looking forward to growing organically with them.

Q: Can you talk a little about you and your wife’s story with Women Supporting Women?
Heather has a high rate of breast and ovarian cancer in her family history, so several members were tested for the BRCA 1 gene mutation – an indicator that at least one of these cancers is all but imminent. Heather tested positive, and her doctors recommended a bilateral mastectomy and hysterectomy as a preventive measure. With strength and knowledge, she underwent surgery in September 2010, and she is doing very well today.
We found Women Supporting Women to be an excellent resource for information and support. As Heather did not actually have cancer, many of the “big name national” organizations said they were unable to help.

Q: What is it about the organization that made you want to be a part of it?
Women Supporting Women was our rock, our support network, and our beacon of light. My wife and I did not have to travel this journey alone. Whatever we needed to make our journey easier, Women Supporting Women was there to help provide… free of charge. They absolutely accomplished their mission of proving awareness, education and support to all those who are affected by breast cancer.
Besides the very personal attention and support we received, it was nice to know that they are a local organization. All of the funds they raise stay right here in our community — unlike national non-profits, where I have seen that, although a portion of funds often stay here, much of what is raised leaves our area and never reaches our local residents.

Q: What are you working on now as the Fund Development Director?
I am very excited about our 10th Annual Walk for Awareness coming up on Saturday, October 8, at Winterplace Park in Salisbury. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m., and we will walk at 10:00 a.m. At $20 per walker and $5 per pet, it is a walk that almost everyone can afford to participate in. This year, we are also encouraging teams to participate, with a $1,000 goal per team. The team who raises the most over $5,000 will receive an amazing prize (boat cruise on the Sea Chaser)! I challenge all of our local residents to get registered and walk. More information can be found at www.womensupportingwomen.org
 If you prefer to bicycle, we are also entering a team in the Sea Gull Century on Saturday, October 15 at Salisbury University. We are asking each rider to raise $250, and will provide pink bicycle jerseys to reward success. Email me to register: carlos@womensupportingwomen.org
Q: Where would you like to see Women Supporting Women go in the future?
We have a lot of great programs on the drawing board for nutrition, exercise and complimentary care. As these programs are designed to help everyone in our community, it is more important than ever to get local residents involved. Whether volunteering your time or donating your money, everything you give to Women Supporting Women helps you, your family and friends. This community has been wonderful to us in the past. In the future, I’d like to see our base of individual support grow. Therefore I challenge you, as an individual, to donate and get involved.

Q: What advice do you have for other people who’d like to get involved with local charities and non-profits?
Get involved, volunteer, engage! Life is a short journey. If you just sit and watch, you miss out on great opportunities and experiences. Donating your time or money creates a wonderful feeling that fuels your karma, your light, and your soul. Those experiences are what fill your life with joy. Try it!

Q: What can people do to help Women Supporting Women in particular?
Give a personal or company donation, coordinate an event to raise funds, or volunteer your time in our office or at one of our events. It is only with the help of volunteers and donors such as yourself that Women Supporting Women can make a continuing promise to our survivors: We are here for you because you are here for us.