Volunteer Spotlight: Kathi Fernandez
Our volunteers come from different walks of life but what they all have in common is that they’re dedicated leaders who will not rest until Alzheimer’s is ended. Below is the story of Kathi Fernandez – one of the many wonderful people we feel so lucky to work with.
My name is Kathi Fernandez. I have been married to my husband Vince for 45 years. We live in Sunnyvale where we raised our two boys – Dave and Vince. I have five grandchildren – three boys and two girls.
I didn’t have any immediate family members that had Alzheimer’s. Through the years I heard of family members (aunts and uncles) that were affected by the disease. I would hear them talk about how difficult it was for them to see their loved ones go through this disease.
Back in 2005, I learned that there was a volunteer position open at the Northern California and Northern Nevada chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. I had just retired from the Sunnyvale School District after 25 years and was ready for a new adventure. I applied for the position in Donor Services and worked there for four years.
In 2007, I became a grandmother for the first time and when my second granddaughter joined us in 2009, I decided I wanted to spend quality time with them. So once again I retired and started volunteering in my spare time. It has now been eight years and I have enjoyed every minute of it.
I mainly spend my time with the Programs Department but I have also helped out in Human Resources, Accounting and with the Walk Team whenever needed.
The best part of volunteering at the Alzheimer’s Association are the people that work here. They are like one big family, kind and thoughtful. It is a real pleasure to come every week, and I would recommend it to anyone who would like to help out in a great office.
Helpful information related to this post:
You are a wonderful person thank you for your volunteer work. Love you cousin!