I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Robin Wilson, and I am the new Volunteer Manager at Neighbors Who Care. I joined the team in March and thankfully had the opportunity to train alongside Jennifer Gustafson before she her departure.
I have been working hard to learn the different aspects of NWC and the people who are doing such meaningful work. I am new to the senior services world but not new to volunteer management. As a lifelong volunteer, I turned my passion for volunteering into a late-in-life career.
I started my volunteer management career as the Volunteer Coordinator and ZooTeen Supervisor at the Phoenix Zoo. This opportunity was the perfect beginning as it took my people skills and combined them with my love of kids & animals. As the ZooTeen supervisor, I worked with teens from all over the valley. This was a highly competitive program that offered teens the opportunity to work closely with zoo staff to learn about public speaking and animal care.
After years at the Phoenix Zoo, I transitioned to Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center (SWCC), where I served as the Events, Volunteer, and HR Manager. SWCC is a wildlife sanctuary where they rescue, rehabilitate and release mammals of the Southwest. Animals that are not releasable become sanctuary residents and ambassadors of their species. The sanctuary (located in North Scottsdale) offers educational tours for those wanting to learn more and how they can support animals in need.
While I have always loved the animal world, my true passion has always been working with people. When I discovered Neighbors Who Care, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to explore it. Learning about the amazing work being done in Sun Lakes and South Chandler to help seniors, I knew I had found the right place for me.
On a personal note, I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Terry, for nearly 43 years. We have three grown children and three grandchildren. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, bike riding, traveling, and spending time on the beach with a good book!
I am excited to recruit, on-board and support volunteers in their vital work of supporting seniors in need.
If you would like to reach out to me, feel free to email me HERE. I look forward to connecting with you.