Volunteers don’t just leave an impression on the people they serve, but often it is those who witness these acts of service that receive benefit. I&M’s Laura Schoening gained this early influence from her mother and has turned it into a passion for serving others within her community. 

What organizations do you volunteer with and what are your roles within those opportunities?

For the last eight years, I have volunteered at several events representing AEP but also supporting my community. These have included resume and interview training for students at Purdue University and Lake Michigan College, United Way’s Rake a Difference and the Cook Nuclear Plant Uranium-235k. I also serve on the board of directors for the line program at Ivy Tech. I have also enjoyed attending the Potawatomi Zoo fundraiser, as I have a passion for volunteering for any activities that help animals.

How long have you done volunteer work?

My mom influenced me to always give back and to use my knowledge to benefit others, so I would say that I have followed her example all my life.

What drives you to volunteer your time in the community?

The joy you feel in seeing people smile drives me to continue volunteering. I truly appreciate working for a company that provides us with opportunities to give back to our communities. I always have a great time volunteering with friends from work in these roles.

In your opinion, why should someone who doesn’t volunteer, sign up to do it?

Volunteering can be something small and does not always have to take hours out of your day to complete. Start by being kind. Help a neighbor, fix a meal for a friend that had surgery or consider adopting an animal. The effort you give encourages others to pay it forward and you leave more of an impression on people than you realize. The shadow of a leader is important outside of work as well.