Ben Berard and Volunteers of Vegas Are Building a Better Las Vegas

Meet Ben Berard

Since joining drvn in October 2022, Ben Berard has quickly become one of the most vibrant and unmistakable presences within the company. Known for his authenticity, infectious optimism, and deep care for others, Berard brings more than just professional skill to his role. He brings heart.

Berard doesn’t simply show up to work. He shows up as himself; fully, unapologetically, and in a way that encourages others to do the same. “I spent much of my life trying to fit into a box that was not designed for me,” he says. “As a result, Ben Berard is someone who lives his life loudly to show the world that the best version of ourselves is the one that is authentic.”

That authenticity hasn’t gone unnoticed. Within drvn, Berard has built a reputation, not just as a reliable colleague, but as a connector, a motivator, and a beacon of genuine community spirit. His approach to relationships, whether internal or external, is driven by a sense of purpose and presence. It's helped set a tone that ripples through the culture at large.

Berard’s impact at drvn extends far beyond job descriptions or quarterly metrics. In many ways, his presence represents what drvn stands for: bold vision, meaningful connection, and a willingness to do things differently if it means doing them better. As it turns out, those same values are at the core of a powerful mission Berard has been building outside the office walls. That being his non-profit, Volunteers of Vegas (VOV).

Berard’s Work at drvn

When Berard joined drvn, he wasn’t just stepping into a new role. He was stepping into a place that would allow him to grow into the most fully realized version of himself. In the time since he joined in 2022, Berard has contributed meaningfully to the company’s mission. He has a unique gift using his strengths in relationship-building, outreach, and human connection to elevate both the internal team and the clients drvn serves.

But Berard’s journey at drvn isn’t just about professional development. It’s also deeply personal.

“The person you’re speaking to now in comparison to the person I was before joining drvn are two very different people. drvn saw something in me that I did not see in myself, and drvn helped me grow into someone that was able to do [Volunteers of Vegas] and so much more.”

Berard credits drvn with creating the space and support system that made VOV possible. At drvn, he found something many people spend entire careers searching for: a workplace that values individuality, encourages vision, and genuinely invests in its people.

From day one, Berard made it clear that he wasn’t looking for just another job. He was looking for a place that could be his home. During the interview process, he told the team, “I never wanted to interview for a job again. I wanted this to be my forever home.”

This culture of trust and authenticity not only empowered Berard to thrive, but became a natural launching pad for a mission rooted in service and compassion. drvn didn’t just hire Berard. They believed in him, and that belief has helped ignite a movement in the Vegas community.

Introducing Volunteers of Vegas (VOV)

While Berard’s professional life was flourishing at drvn, another calling was quietly taking shape. One rooted in service, inclusion, and the simple (yet powerful) belief that everyone deserves a chance to give back. That calling became Volunteers of Vegas (VOV), a nonprofit organization founded by Berard to create real a community through accessible volunteerism.

The idea for VOV wasn’t sparked by a long-term strategic plan or nonprofit playbook. It was sparked by a simple frustration. Shortly after moving to Las Vegas, Berard looked to join a civic club, something he’d always enjoyed. However, the club required a $300 application fee and an ongoing $146 monthly charge.

“I couldn’t justify the expense,” Berard explains. “And when I asked about it, I was not satisfied with the answers.” More importantly, he couldn’t stop thinking about how many others might want to give back, but simply couldn’t afford the price of admission. That disconnect bothered him deeply and motivated him to act.

“My mother always told me people want to do good, but don’t always know how, and I decided to put that to the test.”

On April 19, 2025, the same day he discovered those civic club fees, Berard launched Volunteers of Vegas. Within hours, he had created a logo, published a website, launched a TikTok account, and outlined a vision. The mission was clear from the start: remove the red tape, eliminate the barriers, and make volunteerism accessible to anyone with the desire to serve.

At its heart, VOV is a movement born out of the frustration of organizations trying to wrongly monetize communities, but fueled by the hope that ordinary people will help when given the opportunity. VOV is led by someone who understands that sometimes the only thing standing between someone and their better nature is knowing where to begin.

What VOV Does

Volunteers of Vegas isn’t your typical nonprofit. While many organizations focus solely on serving causes, VOV turns that model inside out by focusing first on serving the volunteers themselves. The mission is simple yet profound: build community through volunteerism. Not just by what volunteers do, but by how they are supported and empowered along the way.

“We are unique in that we are primarily focused on our volunteers. In addition to providing service projects, we also provide resources such as legal counseling, notary services, dental services, and so much more!”

That philosophy, centered around people first, is what makes VOV stand out. Every initiative is designed to create a sense of inclusion and empowerment, ensuring that those who want to give back feel equipped, appreciated, and part of something larger than themselves. The group organizes everything from trash cleanups and animal shelter partnerships to assembling hygiene kits for unhoused individuals. All while fostering a culture that uplifts its own volunteers in return.

Crucially, VOV operates without financial barriers. There are no membership fees, no hidden charges, and no prerequisites to get involved. Anyone who wants to help is welcomed with open arms and a clear path to action. Whether someone is signing up to help with a project or seeking support through one of VOV’s auxiliary services, the same principle applies: access should never be limited by your wallet.

This commitment to accessibility is what fuels the energy behind VOV’s rapid growth. In just a short time, it has already attracted an advisory board, earned the support of local organizations, and built a strong, joyful volunteer network across Las Vegas. And it's all because VOV understands something that many forget:

“People want to do good, they just don’t always know how.”

VOV is here to be that “how.”

How VOV Operates

Behind the growing momentum of Volunteers of Vegas is a surprisingly lean but highly efficient team that thrives on shared purpose, digital tools, and a clear structure built for action. With no bloated bureaucracy or complicated layers of approval, VOV keeps things simple, transparent, and people-focused, and that’s exactly why it works.

At the core of the organization is an advisory board composed of some of the most dedicated and capable community members in Las Vegas. This group meets on the first Saturday of every month to discuss strategy, review proposals, and coordinate upcoming efforts. To stay organized and aligned, the team uses Trello, a digital collaboration tool that allows each board member and department to track tasks, initiatives, and progress in real time.

“VOV is an anomaly in that it is the easiest thing I’ve ever done because of the tremendous support I’ve received. It doesn’t make sense and it doesn’t need to.”

Part of what makes VOV run smoothly is its clear and respectful set of guidelines. Volunteers don’t need to jump through hoops to join. There are no background checks required, though volunteers must be at least 18 years old. The signup process is streamlined: individuals visit the website, select an opportunity, and fill out a simple application form. Once registered, volunteers receive a confirmation email and a detailed “Know Before You Go” email the day before each event.

VOV maintains high standards while preserving a welcoming spirit. To ensure reliability and fairness, especially since many events have limited capacity, the organization enforces a three-strike no-call, no-show policy. Miss three events without notice, and a volunteer may no longer be eligible to participate. This policy protects the integrity of each project while respecting the time and commitment of all involved.

On the other side of the equation, organizations looking for volunteers have a clear path to submit project requests through a dedicated form on the VOV website. Requests are vetted by the board and, if approved, added to the event lineup. Every posting requires essential details (who, when, where, and why) so volunteers always know exactly what they’re walking into.

“We have a surplus of organizations wanting to work with us. Just during this interview, I received another inquiry asking for volunteers for an autism awareness event.”

The result? A system that feels more like a movement than an institution. VOV may operate with a small crew, but its heart and impact are massive.

Impact in the Community

Though still in its early stages, Volunteers of Vegas has already made a measurable, and deeply emotional, impact across the Las Vegas community. In just two months, VOV has hosted over 10 service events, each one designed to bring people together while meeting real needs on the ground.

From trash cleanups in parks and walking paths to the assembly of care kits for unhoused individuals and animals, VOV’s efforts reflect a wide spectrum of service. But more than the variety of projects, it’s the spirit behind them that resonates. Volunteers don’t just show up to do good. They show up because they feel part of something bigger than themselves.

One of the most moving examples of this community-driven impact began with a simple request for help: a volunteer whose veteran father had passed away needed assistance clearing out his home. Within moments of posting the request, over 50 VOV volunteers stepped up, and the entire move was completed in less than 30 minutes.

But the story didn’t end there.

“When this individual found out that I was moving, she reopened every box and created boxes just for me of the nicest things that I could furnish my apartment with.”

Among those gifts was a dining table filled with family history. A table that had hosted countless meals, holidays, and memories. Today, it sits in Berard’s home as a lasting symbol of the way VOV transforms strangers into neighbors and volunteers into family.

The connection didn’t stop with one gesture. That same woman later joined VOV’s advisory board, and her husband, an electrician, offered to help Berard’s mother with long-overdue home repairs.

These aren’t just one-off moments. They’re the natural result of a community built on trust, generosity, and mutual care. That sense of belonging has extended to partnerships with some of Las Vegas’s most respected organizations, including Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary, Opportunity Village, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and the Natural History Museum. The relationships are growing rapidly because, as Berard puts it, “people want to do good, they just don’t always know how.”

The drvn + VOV Partnership

While the official partnership between drvn and Volunteers of Vegas (VOV) is a recent development, for Berard, it’s always felt like a natural extension of both organizations' values.

“There is so much osmosis between the two that I felt we were partners before it was even official. VOV might not exist without drvn, if you think about it.”

That sentiment speaks volumes. drvn isn’t just a company where Berard works. It’s a place that gave him the confidence and platform to grow, both professionally and personally. It was the culture of trust, authenticity, and empowerment at drvn that helped Berard realize he didn’t need permission to build something meaningful. He already had everything he needed to start.

The synergy is real. Some of the same organizations VOV serves, like Make-A-Wish Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities, also cross over with drvn clients. One of VOV’s board members even works at a company currently partnered with drvn. These overlapping relationships aren’t coincidence. They’re a reflection of shared values and mutual trust.

“drvn has supported me and my growth since day one,” Ben says. “I was allowed to be my authentic self here, and now the company I love is standing beside the cause I love.”

This partnership isn't performative. It’s personal and purposeful. It sends a powerful message: when a company chooses to invest in its people beyond their roles, when it says, “We see what matters to you, and we’ll stand behind it,” it changes what work can be. It becomes a community, has an impact, and grows into a legacy worth remembering.

Vision for the Future

Even though Volunteers of Vegas is still young, the vision behind it stretches far beyond city limits, and far beyond what most would expect from a grassroots organization. In the next three to five years, Berard envisions VOV expanding nationally, empowering passionate individuals in cities across the country to replicate the model and make an impact in their own neighborhoods.

“We create community through volunteerism—we genuinely have fun picking up trash because we’re with one another laughing, enjoying the sun and fresh air. It’s beautiful!”

That kind of joy and accessibility is what Berard wants to share beyond Las Vegas. His dream is to develop a turn-key solution. A toolkit that allows others to launch their own VOV-inspired chapters, complete with resources, templates, and guidance. The goal is simple: eliminate the friction between good intentions and good actions.

“When you tell people they can do anything… we will find out together where we are in five years.”

But this vision isn’t just about scale. It’s about depth. As VOV continues to grow, Berard wants to invest more in the volunteers themselves: forming committees, nurturing leadership, and providing more legal, health, and wellness services to those who give their time and heart.

Of course, Berard’s dreams aren’t all spreadsheets and strategy. He also has one very personal and very Las Vegas–sized goal:

“I’m not satisfied until our logo is on the Sphere”

Given the speed and soul behind what VOV has already accomplished, it doesn’t feel far-fetched.

More support means more resources. More resources mean more people helped. And in Berard’s eyes, the impact won’t just be seen on the streets of Vegas. It will echo across the country, carried by volunteers who just needed someone to show them how.

How to Support or Get Involved

Whether you're ready to roll up your sleeves or looking for meaningful ways to give back, getting involved with Volunteers of Vegas (VOV) is refreshingly easy, and genuinely rewarding. From community cleanups to care kits to strategic partnerships, there’s something for everyone who wants to be part of the movement.

Start by visiting volunteersofvegas.com. There, you can sign up for upcoming events, submit a project idea, donate, join the advisory board, and even sign a photo release form, all with just a few clicks. If you’re the kind of person who wants to make a difference but isn’t sure how, this is your next step.

“We have something for everyone,” says Ben. “We make it incredibly easy to get started as soon as tomorrow.”

VOV is also active on TikTok and Instagram, where they regularly share updates, stories, behind-the-scenes videos, and calls to action. You can also find them on Facebook and LinkedIn, or stay connected through their monthly email newsletter, which already has more than 100 subscribers.

Right now, donations are especially helpful as the organization builds out resources, completes its 501(c)(3) status process, and supplies materials for its wide range of volunteer initiatives. But support doesn’t have to be financial. VOV welcomes donations of goods, like the recent offer of 100 pieces of jewelry for job-seeking women, and is constantly looking for "problem solvers," not just problem finders.

“We’re looking for volunteers who are looking to solve problems rather than find them. We have positions available for volunteers who may have a disability as well!”

Whether it’s your time, your skills, your resources, or your voice, VOV will put it to good use. In return, you’ll become part of a community that’s not just making a difference, but showing others how to do the same.

The Power of Showing Up

At its core, Volunteers of Vegas is built on one simple truth: showing up matters. Whether it’s picking up trash, writing a letter to a stranger, or giving someone a dining table filled with memories, every act of service starts with the decision to take that first step.

What began as a response to exclusivity has now become a movement of radical inclusivity. One where anyone can serve, everyone is valued, and doing good doesn’t come with a price tag. It’s a model driven by love, grounded in community, and powered by people who care.

That’s why drvn is proud to support Ben Berard and the mission of Volunteers of Vegas. At drvn, we don’t just invest in great work. We invest in great people.

For Berard, the support from drvn is more than professional backing. It’s personal validation.

“The moment drvn backed VOV is a feeling I’ve never felt before… Now to see the company I love so much support this dream and to see these two cherished worlds merge into one is a moment I’m going to reflect on for the rest of my life.”

The partnership between drvn and VOV isn’t just about visibility or volunteering. It’s about purpose. It’s about empowering people to lead with compassion, build community, and create lasting change.

Most importantly, it’s a reminder that you don’t need to change the world all at once. You just need to show up.

Let’s do good together.

Q&A Transcript

SECTION 1: Ben’s Story & Background

Q: Can you introduce yourself to our audience? Who is Ben Berard outside of the job title?

A:  I spent much of my life trying to fit into a box that was not designed for me; As a result, Ben Berard is someone who lives his life loudly to show the world that the best version of ourselves is the one that is authentic. 

Q: What originally inspired you to start Volunteers of Vegas (VOV)?

A: Having  recently moved to Las Vegas, I was looking to join a civic club as I’ve always loved volunteerism. I found a club I liked and was surprised to see a $300 application fee and a monthly charge of $146. I couldn’t justify the expense, and when I asked about it, I was not satisfied with the answers. 

I couldn’t help but wonder how many people wanted to be a part of such a club, but simply could not afford it. My mother always told me people want to do good, but don’t always know how and I decided to put that to the test.

April 19, 2025 was the day I learned of these ”charges” and April 19, 2025 was the day I started Volunteers Of Vegas. A quick logo, website, Tiktok and a dream Volunteers Of Vegas was born.

Q: What does “community” mean to you personally?

A: I love this question after hearing it asked of Nasya Kamrat, Founder of Nia, and I completely agree with her response. The word community is overused in a commercial sense. The word community enters conversations of sales and strategy and that’s just not where I feel it belongs. It’s not a marketing campaign.

Community is where people feel safe to be themselves authentically. Community is home. Community is the wind beneath your wings and the ear to ear smile when you think about it. Community is not a word, It’s a feeling.

Q: Can you tell us about a defining moment that made you realize this kind of work was your calling?

A: Acts of service has always been my love language, and I mean every sense of that… I had an epiphany just a few days ago, and I had to share it with the person it involved and now I’ll share it with you: about five years ago I was on one of those dating apps and wanted to meet someone but he was moving. Without hesitation, I offered to go help a complete stranger move.

 A full circle moment happened a few weeks ago when one of our volunteers reached out about her veteran  father passing and needing help moving everything to charities. Without hesitation, I agreed to take on the project and so did 50 other volunteers and we moved her entire house in less than 30 minutes. That’s VOV. 

SECTION 2: About Volunteers of Vegas (VOV)

Q: For those who may not be familiar, what is Volunteers of Vegas and what do you do?

A: Volunteers Of Vegas is a nonprofit organization based in Las Vegas, Nevada. We are focused on building community through volunteerism, and we are unique in that we are primarily focused on our volunteers. In addition to providing volunteers with service projects, we also provide resources such as legal counseling and notary services in addition to dental services and so much more!

Q: What types of projects or causes does VOV typically focus on?

A: by design, we have volunteer opportunities of every shape and size. In addition to hosting our own community service projects, we collaborate with organizations such as the Gilcrease Nature sanctuary, Opportunity Village, Ronald McDonald house, charities, natural history, Museum, and so much more!

Q: How do you choose the people, places, or projects that VOV gets involved with?

A: In the world of volunteerism, there’s a lot of red tape. Some of it serves a purpose and parts of it I don’t understand. Similar to the drvn story, I saw an inefficiency in how things were being done, and I thought I might be able to improve it. 

To volunteer for an event, volunteers must go to our website, select the volunteer opportunity they want and fill out the volunteer application form, which is just a few basic questions. They then receive a confirmation email and the day before the event volunteers receive a “know before you go” email giving them all of the specifics.

If a volunteer has three no calls, no shows they are no longer able to volunteer with us because we often have limited spots. Because we do not require a background check we do require volunteers to be at least 18 years old. 

As far as projects go, we have a surplus of organizations wanting to work with us. Just during this interview, I received another inquiry, asking for volunteers for an event supporting autism awareness. There is a button on the website that says submit a project where I direct everyone who needs volunteers to submit the request and once vetted we will post on the website. We do require specific details to be offered in order to qualify to be added to the website, such as who, when, where, and why.

Q: What’s been one of the most meaningful or memorable VOV projects so far?

A: you won’t believe me, but I’ll still share with you:

Earlier I referenced a woman who lost her father, and we all came together to help move her fathers belongings to charities. When this individual found out that I was moving, she reopened every box and created boxes just for me of the nicest things that I could furnish my apartment with. One of the items she gave me was the dining table that she had many meals with her father and spent many holidays around with her family. That table holds so many precious memories for that family, and I’m sitting at it as I speak with you.

Not only that, but this individual felt so passionate about VOV that she asked to join our advisory board. In addition, her husband has now helped me move larger items twice (owning a truck is a blessing and a curse I suppose). 

ADDITIONALLY my mother has needed an electrician for sometime, but they are quite costly. My mom has extension cords running through her house and it breaks my heart but this man, the husband of the woman who we helped move her deceased father’s belongings just so happens to be an electrician who has offered to go help my mom. Incredible.

Q: How does the VOV team operate? Is it all volunteers? How do you keep it running?

A: We have an advisory board that meets on the first Saturday of every month. We use a program called Trello to keep all of our action items organized and departments in sync. VOV is an anomaly in that it is the easiest thing I’ve ever done because of the tremendous support I’ve received. It doesn’t make sense and it doesn’t need to.

Somehow, we developed an advisory board of some of the most capable and powerful people in Las Vegas. We’ve received an outpouring of donations and sponsorships. Volunteers and  board members don’t allow me to take too much on and when they see things that they can, they do it without me having to ask. “People want to do good, they just don’t always know how.” I see it every day.

SECTION 3: Impact & Community Work

Q: How has VOV impacted the local Las Vegas community so far?

A: We celebrated our two month anniversary and in this time we’ve done some cool things. We’ve posted over 10 events and we’ve collected over 30 bags of trash from a variety of locations from walking pads to Parks and Beyond.

We assemble kits for the unhoused humans and animals which we allow volunteers to take with them or leave with us to donate on their behalf.

We have a group of people who tirelessly write letters to seniors and healthcare workers and front lines forces who need to pick me up all the way down to the detail of creating handmade crossword puzzles.

We have a group of people who meet every Friday to create new ideas and initiatives to propose to the board, and we have an ear on the ground because every person who volunteers with us is passionate about this so we’re constantly finding fun things to do that no one else is doing. 

Q: What kind of feedback have you received from the people or organizations you’ve helped?

A: The gratitude received is beyond comprehension at times because we sincerely love to help others. We don’t necessarily feel like we are owed to thank you; we love doing this! We are frequently posted about online and the sincere gratitude received from not only the people we help but the volunteers who got to be a part of that magic is inspiring all on its own.

Q: In what ways do you think small grassroots efforts like VOV can make a difference where larger systems sometimes fall short?

A: telling me I can’t do something is a sure fire way to make me do it… Just look at the origin of VOV! Are we a small grassroots effort? Wynn Resorts just asked if 16,000 volunteers can participate with VOV. Unfortunately for all the naysayers, I have my family around and they give me superpowers. I’m not satisfied until our logo is on the sphere. That’s a personal goal of mine. I want to caution nonprofits of any size that don’t truly appreciate the volunteers that support them. I’ve seen it happen more often than it should and that will never happen here.

SECTION 4: Partnership with drvn

Q: What does the new partnership between VOV and drvn look like?

A: similar to the one of chocolate and peanut butter… It just makes sense. drvn has been committed to making a difference in the community before I came along and then drvn gave me a home. I was allowed to be my authentic self here and drvn has supported me and my growth since day one. Some of the groups Volunteers Of Vegas supports happen to be clients of drvn such as make a wish foundation. One of our board members happens to work at one of the companies drvn is working with and so on. there is so much osmosis between the two that I felt we were partners before it was even official. VOV potentially would not exist without drvn if you think about it.

Q: How did this collaboration come about?

A: I pushed for it. I knew that drvn would love everything VOV is doing, and I just needed an opportunity to share outside of the typical administrative meetings. I started mentioning little things here and there, but it wasn’t until Timothy Prescott saw something in both me and Volunteers Of Vegas that generated some actual momentum. Huge shout out to Tim for making this happen and my absolute things and appreciation to Mario Medina and Edward Moffly for trusting me.

Q: What makes drvn a good partner for VOV and your mission?

A: The person you’re speaking to now in comparison to the person I was before joining drvn are two very different people. drvn saw something in me that I did not see myself and drvn helped me grow into someone that was able to do this and so much more. I couldn’t imagine partnering with anyone else because I’ve seen first hand the transforming ability that drvn is able to do not only with regard to growing a business, but growing people.

Q: How do you hope this partnership will expand VOV’s impact?

A: This interview is a great start. VOV is my heart, almost literally. VOV has always existed but now it has a name. drvn has provided me with a life I didn’t think I’d ever have, in the best of ways. I’ve gotten to see things and go places and meet people I never thought possible. The potential opportunities that naturally arise in working with drvn are endless and VOV gets to “ come along for the ride”.

Q: Are there specific upcoming projects that drvn will be involved in?

A: Absolutely! In a different interview, we can talk about the necessity of corporations and nonprofits and the relationship they have with one another, but in the meantime, I’d like to share that VOV and drvn are in talks with Make-A-Wish foundation, and Ronald McDonald house charities to see how we can best support those missions. This is just a start.

SECTION 5: The Bigger Vision

Q: Where do you see VOV going in the next 3–5 years?

A: This is such an exciting question because it’s both the easiest and most difficult question to answer. VOV is structured to be such a simple concept with the ability to do nearly anything. We create community through volunteerism - we genuinely have fun picking up trash because we are with one another laughing, enjoying the sun and fresh air. It’s beautiful! Even more beautiful, people see what we are doing, and want to do awesome things for and with us! In the next 3 to 5 years, we’re going to continue thinking out of the box to provide resources and opportunities for volunteers to connect and create community in relationships. We believe that investing in caring for volunteers has a trickle up effect where we are nurturing people that have good intentions and provide them the resources to make those intentions actions. When you tell people they can do anything… We will find out together where we are in five years.

Q: What would you do with more resources, more awareness, or more volunteers?

A: A bulk of resources currently go to supplies. We are currently in the process of applying for our 501(c)(3) status, which requires some of our resources as well. The goal, as we get more volunteers is to create committees and allow volunteers to truly feel as though they can be part of something bigger than themselves beyond even volunteering, but getting to also impact VOV. 

Q: What’s your dream project for VOV if budget and time weren’t a limitation?

A: a dream project for VOV is to create a way for other passionate volunteers who don’t reside in Clark County to have a turn key solution to creating such a group. “people want to do good, they just don’t always know how” - if we give them the tools and resources to create what we are doing here, but in their own neighborhood… Just imagine what the world could look like!

SECTION 6: Get Involved

Q: How can people get involved with VOV?

A: We have something for everyone and getting involved with us just takes a couple clicks! Our website is the perfect starting place and from there, selections can be made such as registering for an event or submitting an event in addition to learning more about us donating to our cause, joining our advisory board, signing photo releases, and so much more!

Q: What kinds of volunteers or donations are most helpful right now?

A: I’ve always said there are two kinds of people - problem finders, and problem solvers. We’re looking for volunteers who are looking to solve problems rather than find them. We have positions available for volunteers who may have a disability as well!

Donations of any kind helps. We are new, so we are in the process of obtaining supplies and getting all the right paperwork in order, etc. so currently donations in the form of green paper are tremendously helpful. That being said, as I answered this question someone reached out saying they have 100 pieces of jewelry. They want to donate to women who are looking to find a job and otherwise would not have such accessories. We are so thankful to receive these donations and even when we don’t have the exact need, we can point them in their direction such as in this case, I pointed them to the retail closet!

Q: Is there anything specific that you’re currently looking for — whether that’s skills, items, or connections?

A: I’m currently in the process of looking for merchandise for our volunteers to wear proudly. I’m currently also looking for resources that are either free or low cost that would benefit our volunteers. 

Q: Where can people follow along with what VOV is doing or reach out to help?

A: We are very active on TikTok and Instagram! We also have Facebook and LinkedIn, but the number one place to find all of our resources would be the website! We do send a monthly newsletter as well to keep everyone updated. We have over 100 people who have subscribed!

SECTION 7: Closing & Personal Reflection

Q: What keeps you motivated when things get hard?

A: Life was full of “hard” for a long time. I overcame it because that was the only option. I learned that things are actually not hard, we just need to shift perspective, which at times is easier said than done. When I’m having a hard time shifting my perspective, I think about my family and how proud they are of me and that gets me to take another step forward. I also get daily affirmations from many people reminding me of the great things we’re doing - it’s pretty easy to stay motivated when you have over 3000 cheerleaders! I have to give a huge shout out to the advisory board at Volunteers Of Vegas here when they see too much is on my plate, they take it off without me asking.

Q: What would you say to someone who wants to give back to their community but doesn’t know where to start?

A: Start. There needs to be a starting point so just go -  you can refine and adjust and learn but start now. Humans can think ourselves out of anything so don’t think about it and just do it! Do I get a kickback from Nike?

Go to our website and see what we are doing. We make it incredibly easy to get started as soon as tomorrow. I am also accessible and available to anyone and everyone with my phone number listed on the website along with my email. No one ever goes more than 24 hours without a response. We are genuinely here to help, and if you have questions we have answers! 

Q: What’s one story or moment that you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life?

A: The moment drvn backed VOV is a feeling I’ve never felt before. Something I don’t talk about much is the fact that I had two job offers the same day I was hired; One from drvn and another was a Grant Cardone company. I chose drvn and drvn chose me and that was one of two times in my life I felt my “gut”.

During the interview process, I told drvn I never wanted to an interview for a job again and I wanted this to be my forever home.. I’m meant to be here and there is no doubt about it. Now to see the company I love so much support this dream and to see these two cherished worlds merge into one is a moment I’m going to reflect on for the rest of my life. I’ll have you know I cried answering this question. It’s truly beautiful to see what’s happening.

Q: If people remember just one thing about Volunteers of Vegas, what do you hope it is?

A: The name for starters! It’s beautiful. I was in the grocery store the other day and two girls came up to me and said “are you that guy from Volunteers Of Vegas?” Do you know how happy I was that they did not know who the hell I was yet they knew Volunteers Of Vegas? I don’t promote my name on social media or the website because this is not about me in the slightest. If people can remember that Volunteers Of Vegas is designed to provide a better life for everyone in the community, I’ve done my job.

Q: Any final words you want to share — about VOV, community, or the power of showing up?

A: “People want to do good, They just don’t always know how”. Volunteers Of Vegas is here to be your “how”. Whether you need help with nowhere to turn or just need to feel loved, Volunteers Of Vegas is home. We truly are creating a community and everyone is welcome. Let’s do good together!