Apex Involvement: Mentor since March 2009
Hometown: UWS NYC, Rockland County, NY
Profession: Patient Centered Care Specialist, New York-Presbyterian Hospital
1. Why do you volunteer with Apex?
I believe that I have a lot to share, teach and give. And since I have no children of my own yet, I want to be able to channel that into mentoring – to help guide another and at the same time, to learn and grow from the pairing. As a former Volunteer Services Manager I know that you inevitably receive in giving.
2. Who was one of the most influential adults in your life when you were growing up?
My aunt, my dad’s only sister. She is a Bank Street trained teacher, a woman who knows how to have fun, enjoy herself, laugh at herself even. She is a fantastic storyteller who is warm and wonderful. I always love being around her.
3. What has been one of your favorite Apex memories?
My mentee and I loved the scavenger hunt in Central Park which ended our first year together during the summer picnic. It was challenging, engaging, intellectual and fun. We always strive to do things together that fit that description.
4. The craziest thing I’ve seen in New York is…
An accident near Times Square – the SUV flipped completely upside down! I couldn’t fathom how it must have happened, how fast the driver must have been going and how more people were not hurt including bystanders.
5. My favorite meal is…
A pasta dish called Buccatini Matraciana. It’s spaghetti pasta with a tiny pinhole through the length with a tomato meat sauce, onions and garlic. I don’t even need dessert after that! But, if I had to – a cupcake from Buttercup Cafe would be nice: vanilla cake with vanilla icing.
