Opportunity Knocks!
And, it also rocks, according to ESP Joel Kobylka, who worked as a Campaign Associate back in 2010. Joel spent some time talking to ES Connected about his experience with The United Way and how he believes it helped to expedite his professional development, advance his career and give him the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
Kick Off
Joel has been involved with United Way since 2006. “I signed a lifetime contract,” he says with an infectious laugh. “It was the best decision I could have made.” At the time, Joel was working with Financial Aid. He was approached by a colleague about the United Way opportunity and decided to give it a try. On ‘loan’ for four months, Joel embarked on a fascinating journey. “The first week,” he describes, “was filled with excellent and supportive training, as was all of my time spent with United Way. I learned so much from many industry professionals.” Soon after, Joel was on his feet and working with many different businesses in running United Way campaigns. “I worked with CBC, The Boys and Girls Club and John Gordon Neighbourhood House,” he says. “I was exposed to different environments and the flexibility was exciting. I really loved the variety the role had to offer.”
Highlights
Joel went on to tell us how he was able to improve and advance skills. “I used to be very nervous when I had to speak in public. The United Way opportunity helped me to open up and build my public speaking confidence.” He remarks, “I now enjoy speaking in public and I’m really grateful I was able to work on the skill I so often use in my current role.” In addition to finessing his assets, Joel boasted, “Some days I was working alongside the President and Vice President of UBC. It’s not every day you can work so close to these notable figures!” In addition to the professional development and celebrity exposure Joel generously received from his role, he recalls one of his favourite parts being the time he curated Robson Square’s Rodeo Campaign in Gastown. Held at the Bourbon, Joel organized a fundraising night filled with beer, food and fun, including mechanical bull rides (incriminating photos not included). The night was a great success and funds for the United Way were exceeded.
Your Turn!
So now the United Way wants you! Here’s the opportunity to expand your career and get involved with an organization that gives back to the community. Looking for a new challenge at work? Need a professional opportunity but don’t want to leave your unit? This is what you need! Learn valuable new skills during a fun, action-packed 16-week period in the fall and help United Way raise funds at UBC to support over 500 programs and initiatives across the Lower Mainland.
Check out the details here!
For more information or stories (or those incriminating photos) from Joel please contact him directly at joel.kobylka@ubc.ca.
If you would like to be involved in local campaigns as a volunteer please also contact Joel or if you would like to volunteer on the UBC main campaign please email united.way@ubc.ca.