On the clock, Michael Blue’s mission is to help Firespring’s clients find the right solutions to elevate their success. Off the clock, he’s on a different mission: to provide meals for those in need. He’s been doing this for over a year with a local nonprofit in Lincoln. You could say that giving back is not just a thing he does to check a box; it’s in his blood. Here’s a little of Michael’s story and what helped shape his views on volunteering today.
Tell us a little bit about what you do at Firespring.
I’m a business development associate, and I work with my team to form new partnerships and put together effective solutions for our clients. My favorite part of my job is getting to meet with different people and organizations on a daily basis. It is fun and interesting getting to learn about how they innovate, what drives them and what their goals and objectives are.
And when you’re off the clock and giving back?
I volunteer at Tabitha’s Meals on Wheels program. It was recommended to me by a coworker, and it’s been very fulfilling doing this over the last year and a half. Tabitha’s Meals on Wheels program provides warm meals 365 days a year to Lincoln residents in need. Tabitha also provides a wide range of senior care services.
When you’re volunteering, what are your responsibilities?
Volunteering here involves picking up a cooler full of meals at Tabitha and dropping them off at their clients’ residences. They provide me with a route sheet with a different neighborhood/area each time.
Getting to meet with their clients is a cool experience. They are always very grateful for their meals and will occasionally invite you into their home to visit for a bit.
What about that particular nonprofit do you love—why did you choose them?
Providing these meals is a vital service and makes a meaningful impact for their clients. Many of them do not have the ability or resources to provide food for themselves on a daily basis, so it is an honor to be able to be a part of something so beneficial for them and the Lincoln community.
Outside of work and volunteering, what grabs your attention or your heart?
I have always had great appreciation for those who either take the time or center their vocation around helping out those in need. I grew up in a family of social workers, so I have been involved in these types of activities throughout most of my life. When I’m not giving back, I love to golf, play video games and hang out with my friends.
How about your family—can you tell us a bit about them?
My parents live in Lincoln and run nonprofit organizations here. My mom is the executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach and my dad is the CEO/president of Cedars Youth Services. My sister lives in Omaha and has worked in child welfare throughout her career. She is currently the director of permanency at Saint Francis Ministries. I have been fortunate to have such a great family. They are equally as fun as they are smart and supportive.
One last question: How are you hanging in there as 2020 comes to a close?
I have to say that I am getting tired of working from home. That being said, I have been able to manage it fairly well as it has become the new normal for people in many professions. It has been interesting to witness how Firespring and our clients have had to adapt. It affects each business or organization differently, so it’s a strong testament to our company that we have been able to remain successful throughout this rough patch in time.
At Firespring, giving back is in our DNA, much like it’s in Michael’s. Learn more about how Firespring gives back through the Power of Three program.