First American’s Volunteer Spotlight program recognizes employees who are active in their communities. Each month, employees record their volunteer hours, and one employee is selected at random to receive a donation to the charity of their choice.
Jamie Morse-Kincaid, an Escrow Officer in our Direct Division in Sacramento, Calif., donated to the Antelope Band Boosters Association, which supports the Antelope High School marching band in Antelope, Calif.
How did you get started with the Antelope Band Boosters Association you volunteer with?
I have four children and my third son started play the trombone in middle school as an elective. He fell in love with the music and it wasn't until he reached high school that I truly understood the appeal. Band is an amazing family—they all win together or they all lose together. The hours of practice and "one more time" that these kids put into their shows to make them perfect amazes me at such a young age.
What type of volunteer work do you do for ABBA?
I am part of the volunteer force that moves equipment across the field and provides labor and support for fundraising events. I also chaperon the buses and serve as the treasurer.
What do you find most rewarding about your volunteer work?
These are great kids - they are polite, hardworking teenagers. They are so grateful for the help we provide and go out of their way to thank us for our support. Yes, teenagers thanking adults completely on their own! How could I not want to help them reach their goals?
What has surprised you most about your time with this group?
This year I was nominated as treasurer to serve on the board. I had no idea how much money is needed every year to run a competitive band program and how very little is provided by the school. I also had no idea how much time it would require and it is tough at times. I had never helped much with my other children because I didn't know how much help was needed. Every time those kids march onto that football field, arena or national parade, I still get chills and could not be a prouder band mom to all the band kids.
