Providing Answers, Support and Hope in the Northeast
Volunteer Spotlight: Deborah McNeil
For Deborah McNeil, giving back isn’t a motto, it’s a way of life. Since 2009, Deborah has generously supported the Lupus Foundation of America as one of many philanthropic organizations where she donates her time and talents.
Whether she’s serving up a hot meal at the soup kitchen, collecting donations for first responders, or organizing a team for the Walk to End Lupus Now, Deborah truly embraces the idea of strengthening the community. Deborah stated, “I volunteer because I know what it’s like not to have crucial information or support at critical times in your life. Make the time to help someone else at any given time that could be you in need of help or support one day.”
Through her outstanding service, Deborah inspires other and shares her drive to give with her co-workers at AIG. She is a leader on the company’s volunteer committee and was recognized for her outstanding service receiving the first annual Thomas A. Russo Award for Outstanding Leadership and Dedication to AIG’s Pro Bono Program in 2017.
Lupus is a personal cause for Deborah. The disease has impacted her family. Deborah has served on the Walk to End Lupus Now NYC planning committee, has given her time on walk day in the registration tent, organizes a company team, and hosts an education program at AIG annually to increase lupus awareness that is critically needed.
“Your family, your neighbor, your co-worker, your church member, your partner, your friend, yourself! Anyone of you could have lupus and may not know it, but being involved to learn by spreading and sharing the information and “Walking to End Lupus”, prepares you in how to support and be there for that person or to simply have encouragement that you are not alone living with or fighting lupus.”
The Lupus Foundation of America relies on the generosity of our grassroots volunteers. Through personal stories, sharing facts about the disease, and raising money through walk, we are making a big impact against this cruel disease. Deborah shared her thoughts on the “When in need or a crisis mode, we work and come together for the right reasons. Giving support and encouragement on a “WALK” for increased research and better solutions to pave the way for a cure to lupus one day, is a winner every day.”
We’re grateful to Deborah and all of the dedicated supporters who give so generously to fulfill our vision of a life free of lupus. If you would like to volunteer at the walk, host an education event or give your time in other ways to support the Lupus Foundation, please contact us at 866-225-0348 or info@lupus.org.