Together, with 800 corporate partners, 3,400 volunteers, and more than 20,000 donors, United Way of Southeast Louisiana is fighting for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. The Face of Change series highlights individuals within this mosaic of impact, their unique contributions to our community, and motivations for supporting United Way. This month, meet Toya Barnes-Teamer, a Principal at HCM Strategists.
What is your role with United Way? What do you do in this role?
Presently, I serve as an Equity Consultant to assist in developing a comprehensive strategic plan to address diversity, equity, and inclusion within United Way of Southeast Louisiana as well as with external stakeholders.
How long have you been involved with United Way?
I have been involved with United Way since 1988. I served as a loaned executive through the Urban League, a general volunteer, a co-chair for the Community Impact Committee, a Board of Trustees member, as well as a member of Women United (soon to be chair).
What motivates you to give, advocate, and volunteer?
As someone from humble beginnings and a first-generation college student, I appreciated how my parents raised my siblings and me to be thankful for what God blessed us with, but always to give back. One of my favorite bible quotes is, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” (Luke 12:48).
What is one thing about United Way that you think people should know?
WOW! There is a lot that I feel people should know about United Way. However, since you asked me to name one thing, I would say many in our community may not realize the impact that United Way has had on their lives and/or the lives of their family members.
Community members may not be aware that United Way funds and collaborates with so many other agencies that they may be partnering with or receiving services from. Agencies such as the American Red Cross, Boys & Girls Clubs, Catholic Charities, College Track, YMCA, Jewish Community Center, Kingsley House, Salvation Army, Second Harvest, Son of a Saint, UNCF, and Urban League - just to name a few!
What’s one thing you are excited about for the new year?
One thing that I am excited about for the new year is the opportunity to engage with more organizations around strategic planning and equity.
What’s the #1 thing on your bucket list?
I want to take a family trip to Paris, France. I traveled there in my younger years and my son (Rod Jr.) has always wanted to visit. Since my girls (Tai and Tia) and I think we are amateur wine connoisseurs, I know they would love that experience. And, of course, my husband (Big Rod) would come along, although not a wine drinker, but because he is fun to be around. LOL