Paul Mondragon, President of Bank of America New Mexico, was invited to join the UWNCNM board and soon after, asked to be the campaign chair. He found it “an incredible experience getting out to meet with business leaders in the community and to help tell the story of how UWNCNM makes a real impact on the lives of our friends and neighbors.”

Paul cites two very meaningful benefits to his connection with UWNCNM. The first is the strong connection with like-minded civic leaders. After being in the trenches of fundraising meant he really got to know the people who are actively committed to helping others. That generated a strong bond of respect that he carries towards those folks to this day.

The second benefit is the recognition and understanding of the real need within our community. Beyond the organizations, UWNCNM volunteers also get to meet the people that require that direct support. While seeing some of the dire need around us can be challenging, hearing how the work UWNCNM is fundamentally helping those in need is also deeply moving, he said.

For its future, UWNCNM needs to be adaptable and forward thinking, he says. UWNCMN serves a vital role in connecting those in need with those in a position to help. “This “clearinghouse” function, along with other services will only become more vital as a certain amount of disconnectedness continues to creep into our digital age.

“It would be very easy to get up, go to work, come home, spend time with family and friends, and pay little attention to what is happening outside of one’s bubble. Working with United Way is eye-opening in that you see up close so many not-for-profit organizations doing hard work to support people and causes that might otherwise go unrecognized.”