Volunteering has made a strong impact on Zach Umsted’s life. 

“It keeps me grounded by turning my focus outward toward helping others who I’ve never met,” says Zach, a Data Governance Analyst 2 at Wellabe. “It helps keep me humble by moving me out of my comfort zone and placing me in situations I wouldn’t normally be in, and I always come back from volunteering more optimistic, knowing that there are a bunch of people out there who are helping others every day.”

Zach says he has been especially active with the United Way because of its “community chest” approach, where it takes out the guesswork by curating a list of needs within a community. 

“I’m a strong supporter of the United Way and their focus on improving a community’s education, economic mobility, and health. Helping our neighbors improve their circumstances helps us all. When health issues, poverty, or an education level are limiting your prospects, it’s hard to focus on anything else,” he says.

After participating in Wellabe’s 2022 United Way committee, Zach knew he wanted to join Wellabe’s volunteer employee resource group. The group’s sponsored events and Wellabe’s volunteer time-off (VTO) program have given him opportunities to contribute to other organizations.

Two memorable volunteer events include the Food Bank and Meals on Wheels.

“I enjoy volunteering at the Food Bank. It’s usually chill, just helping to sort and bag vegetables. It can be meditative if you want to focus on the task at hand, or you can socialize and get to know your coworkers better,” he says. “Meals on Wheels is also great. It gets you out of the office for about an hour or two, and you really start to feel a connection to the people you’re helping on a regular basis.”

Zach encourages others to volunteer, but he also recognizes the hardest parts are finding what to choose and when to fit it in.

“There’s so much need out there that you’re sure to find a volunteer opportunity that can match you and your schedule. The hardest thing is just getting it on your schedule,” Zach says. “But, while you’re at it, make sure to take time for yourself as well. It’s better to consistently volunteer a little bit of your time, than to go all-in, burn out, and then never volunteer again. Find the balance of care and self-care that works for you.”