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December Community Volunteer Spotlight:
Maria Quinones
Sometimes we learning and development professionals find ourselves thrown into that highly stressful sink or swim situation with no option but to swim. That's what happened to this month’s Community Spotlight Volunteer, Maria Quinones, President of Q Factor Consulting. A few months ago, a representative from the City's Summer Youth Employment Program asked ASTD-LA Community Services for a volunteer trainer to facilitate a couple of workshops for 80 youth. The first two facilitators had to step down for job-related reasons, but Maria Quinones, a recent graduate of our ASTD Train-the-Trainer program, stepped up in the nick of time. With only a short time to absorb all the workshop content and practice her delivery, she facilitated two wonderfully interactive career development workshops for 80 participants. The event organizers, recognizing Maria’s generous donation of time, expertise, and enthusiasm, told us that both participant groups thoroughly enjoyed her workshops and fun interactive exercises. Maria was able to use her newly minted facilitation and training skills successfully and led a terrific learning experience for all involved.
1) What is your current job function (professionally)?
I am an independent Human Resources Consultant (Q Factor Consulting)
2) What organization(s) do you volunteer for and in what capacity?
The ASTD-LA Summer Youth Employment Program has been my most recent volunteer endeavor, however, I have a 10+-year history of volunteering, working and counseling with single moms, young adults and families in faith-based and secular organizations.
3) Why did you choose this/these particular organization(s) to volunteer?
I am fairly new to ASTD-LA and was immediately accepted into the family via the relationships that came out of Debbie Newman's Train the Trainer Course in May 2009. I was asked to "fill in" for a colleague with the Summer Youth Employment Program and accepted the task. I enjoy working with young minds who are trying to develop their own unique, personal, vision and making an impact.
4) What have you gained personally/professionally from volunteering?
I learn new ideas for teaching and begin to build new relationships.
5) What advice can you give to ASTD-LA members interested in or starting to volunteer for various non-profits?
St. Francis of Assisi once said that it is in giving that we receive. I would definitely remind other members who are interested in volunteering that it not only brings out the best in others, but it also brings out the best in ourselves.
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