In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, we wanted to take a moment to recognize our team's volunteer efforts in our local community as well as in our state. Life at Hoptocopter™ Films is never dull; we often go out of town for production or put in extra time to meet deadlines. Despite often being short on time, our team consistently rises to meet the challenge at work as well as in their personal lives through volunteering on their own time. We're so proud of our team for making our community better through their personal sacrifice.
This is how our people are making a difference:
Brian Watson (left) and Josh Hudnall (right) of LAUNCH West Co (photo courtesy of ColoradoBiz Magazine)
Brian Watson
It seems like Brian is, in one way or another, connected to all pro-entrepreneurial projects on the Western Slope. Deeply committed to bringing progress to Colorado, Brian loves connecting people to make positive change.
Together with his business partner Josh Hudnall, he founded LAUNCH West Co, a nonprofit network of entrepreneurs that seeks to build and develop the tech and start-up community in Grand Junction, Colorado. He is also on the board for the School District 51 Foundation where he helps to raise funds for teacher education as well as for additional learning technology for students.
Heather (second from right) with CASA of Mesa County
Heather Benjamin
Heather has a passion for helping kids in our community and has been actively involved in Mesa County on behalf of children for many years. Currently, she sits on the board and is the vice-chair of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates of Mesa County). CASA advocates in court for abused and/or neglected children who can't advocate for themselves. Heather organizes fundraisers and supports the 79 active volunteers who go to court and fight for children's rights.
Will schlepping gear (the un-glamourous part of being a rockstar)
Will Campbell
Will volunteers at his church, Life Community, as a worship leader/singer, drummer, and guitar player.
Will has also lent his creative skills by helping put together the church's website, logos, and promotional materials.
Jeff Gustafson
Jeff volunteers his time as Assistant Ward Clerk at his local Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints congregation.
His duties include managing congregational finances, counting and recording donations, and making sure those donations get deposited safely in the bank. He also manages membership records and teaches a class to parishioners once a month.
Patrick Thomas
Patrick mentors people who are fighting addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. Helping people through the 12 Steps, he lends his support by meeting with mentees, offering advice, and helping them take responsibility and find the help they need to become and remain sober.
Cheryl Fabry
Cheryl is the Treasurer of HiFives 4944, a non-profit that promotes STEM education in the Grand Valley through robotics competitions.
She is also on the Business Development Committee for the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), an organization that advocates politically for the engineering industry.
Carrington Schaeffer
Carrie volunteers as a podcaster for Honestly Dear Listener, a podcast that hopes to inspire vulnerability and community in art. Check it out at HonestlyDearListener.com or listen on iTunes.