On October 19, 2017, TEKTON Engineers’ administrative assistant Julie Buchwald Haley was named Ambassador of the Quarter (3Q17) for her work with the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. As an Ambassador, Julie attends Chamber events including networking, ribbon cuttings, anniversaries, open houses, and grand openings of local Chamber member businesses. She is a member and co-chair of the Ambassadors Committee, and an active member of the Fall Gala, Winter Walk, and Home & Garden Show committees. But being a Chamber Ambassador is just the beginning.
When she moved back to Northfield in late 2016 after a 30-year absence, Julie knew she wanted to be active in the community where she grew up. It was a way to reacquaint herself with the city, its residents, and its many changes. She also wanted to give back and make a difference on a local level. “There are many great organizations needing help right here in Northfield and Rice County.” So it was challenging to decide on just a few. But, Julie wanted to help in areas that have impacted her own life: housing, military and veteran support, mental health, and sexual and domestic assault education and awareness. Along with serving as an Ambassador for the Chamber, she is now a dedicated volunteer with Northfield Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and Rice County Mental Health Collective. On December 5, 2017, Julie was named Chair of the Family Services Committee for Rice County Habitat for Humanity, a position that includes membership on its Board of Directors.
She encourages others to volunteer as well. “Giving just a little time can make a huge difference to an organization, its staff, and those it supports.” Most charitable organizations run on shoe-string budgets where every dollar donated is stretched to help where it’s needed most, and that’s the way it should be. Receiving the gift of time and talent is highly valued.
“I am so grateful for all that I get in return for my volunteering. It gives me a purpose and enriches all the other aspects of my life.”
We are so proud to say #WeSupportWhatYouDo to give so much back to our community.