Volunteer Spotlight: Angela Woody
As part of the ongoing Volunteer Spotlight series, we checked in with volunteer Angela Woody on why she chooses to donate her time and energy to Alphapointe.
Q&A with Angela
Tell us about you…
If you meet me you will find that I am a bit of a goof ball. I like to have fun and have a pretty optimistic outlook on life. A smile is a very wonderful gift and I like to smile a lot. I am a sales representative for C&C Group. I am originally from Indianapolis, Ind., and moved to Kansas City five years ago. My husband brought me out here and I love it. Being selected for the volunteer spotlight is such an honor! Thank You!
Why do you volunteer at Alphapointe?
When I joined the C&C Group team, they introduced me to Alphapointe. C&C Group is a great supporter of this amazing organization. My first experience with Alphapointe was to volunteer at the annual golf outing. When I saw all of what they did and the positive impact it had on both children and adults I wanted to be a part of that. My husband and I have taken part in several of the events involving kids in the organization. They are each so inspiring and amazing and will win your heart and your admiration. You really get to find out how positively this organization has affected each of their lives. I enjoy being a part of an organization that makes that kind of a positive impact!
What does volunteering at Alphapointe do for you?
First it makes me happy! To be part of an organization that impacts so many, makes me feel like I am making a difference. If what I do can help just one person’s life be fuller and happier, then that is a great win for me and hopefully them! Alphapointe gives me that ability!
What do you want to share with others about Alphapointe?
I am always talking about what an amazing organization Alphapointe is and how it helps so many with sight disabilities and low vision as well as the profound impact that it has on the individuals who take part in its programs. For many, it gives them a full and independent life when otherwise they might not have had the tools to live their lives to the fullest. Often, they get to experience what so many of us take for granted that they could not normally do without assistance.
Why should others get engaged with Alphapointe?
The people at Alphapointe have so much heart! They give so much back to the community. They are great to work with. The events for fundraising are unique and fun. Working with the children and the adults will open your eyes to another world and other experiences that will make your own life more meaningful. It is a great way to give back to a unique community that needs our help and is not getting enough attention. I think so many of us take our sight for granted. Stop and think about what your world would be like if you all of a sudden lost your sight. What would you do? How would you continue to work and provide for yourself or your family? How would you clean your home, cook your meals or get dressed? How would you help your children with their school work? What about the sports and activities you used to be involved in? How would you get anywhere – grocery store, a friend’s house? How would you go shopping for anything such as groceries, shoes, clothing, school supplies – the list could go on and on. This is what Alphapointe gives to or gives back to the individuals who can take part in their programs. That more than anything is why someone should get involved with Alphapointe. One day – that someone losing their sight could be you!
What is something you think everyone should know about Alphapointe?
The impact it can make on someone’s life with low vision!
What’s the most important thing Alphapointe does from your perspective?
It gives people with sight disabilities/low vision the capabilities to live a full and independent life.
If there’s one public policy change you could make to help people with low vision, what would it be?
I would like to see more funding for programs for individuals with low vision. It would also be great to see restaurants, clothing stores, shoe stores and other stores using brail on labels and menus. Normal everyday places can take one easy step to make the experience available to those with low vision.
