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.
Jason Buxton, a lead software engineer in Chesterfield, Missouri, volunteers with the Wentzville School District Foundation, an independent, non-profit organization that works closely with teachers and educators to develop community support for public education and the students within the district. The Foundation believes education is critical to society, teachers have the power to be catalysts for student successes, and the community can be an agent for positive change.
How did you get started with the Wentzville School District Foundation?
I’ve always tried to stay involved with my children’s classrooms and school activities. I started helping the school district’s F.I.R.S.T. robotics team when my oldest son joined as a freshman. When my eldest daughter started kindergarten I began volunteering as a ‘copy jockey’ for her teachers. This year her teacher needed reading coaches to help various kids who were struggling, so I participated with that too.
What do you find most rewarding about your volunteer work?
Seeing the strength and pride the students develop as they grow. I have loved watching a group of high school students coalesce into a powerful team while each of them grew into their strengths. Helping as a reading coach this year was awesome – hearing a student breeze through a book that vexed them just two weeks ago is its own reward. It doesn’t matter what the kids are trying to do, being able to participate in their growth is an honor.
Volunteering isn’t just about giving. You’ll reap a lot of rewards when you invest your time: a broader perspective on your own life and troubles, the joy that comes from contributing to another person's success, the feeling of belonging, and a deeper sense of compassion.
What has surprised you most about your time with this group?
The robotics team surprised me with the breadth of work they do. They have students in charge of media, fundraising, grant proposals and presentations. Working in my daughter’s classroom opened my eyes to the hard work her teachers pour into their students as well as the significant impact parents can have on the educational process. It was shocking when her teacher explained that she needed reading coaches because “some of the kids don’t have someone to just sit and read with them at home.” My experience there helped reinforce the fact that parenting is a big responsibility, and it made me want to do better by my own kids.
What advice would you have for another First American employee who’s interested in donating his or her time?
I don’t think most people appreciate how much you can contribute simply by being willing to help. Availability is the most precious commodity when it comes to volunteering. I don’t have any particular talent when it comes to working with students, or a background in robotics – I’m just willing to be present.
Furthermore, volunteering isn’t just about giving. You’ll reap a lot of rewards when you invest your time: a broader perspective on your own life and troubles, the joy that comes from contributing to another person's success, the feeling of belonging, and a deeper sense of compassion. Whether you’re working with students or with other volunteer organizations, you can find a way to contribute, irrespective of your background or talents. I would encourage anyone to dive in – you’ll find your place!
