Brooke Henderson, JD, CFP®
Vice President, Relationship Manager, Oklahoma City, OK
1| Which nonprofit are you passionate about serving?
Allied Arts- They have always done a great job supporting local artists and cultivating children. They partner with local businesses and citizens through the OKCityCard and make fundraising fun.
History: Allied Arts was formed in 1971 as a way for the community to support and engage with central Oklahoma’s cultural groups. Click here for more information.
2| What motivates you to give back to the community?
Giving Back always brings to mind several mantras such as “Give of your Time, Talent and Treasure” or “See a need, fill a need.” After having children, it seemed all the “needs” and “giving” I did were always linked to my kids’ schools and fundraisers. They are noble and well-deserved recipients but giving always felt slightly obligated and somewhat self-serving.
This year I have decided to go back to my initial motivations for giving back, using what I have been provided in service to another for no other reason than I can, and they need me to. I love giving to the arts, the décor of events is always unique, the people are so passionate and excited, and the beauty and hope it brings to our community is inspiring.
3| What do you do when you volunteer?
I volunteered at ARTini, where I swept floors, set up tables, followed directions and solved problems as they came up. Of all the ways we can give, giving time during the workday or even afterward can be challenging but can make a huge difference.
4| How would you encourage others to get involved in their community?
I would ask that everyone try to find at least one independent charity you have no personal obligation to that you feel makes your community better and look for a way to serve.
5| Explain why you donate your time to volunteer.
When I volunteer, I become a better person. My perspective, attitude and knowledge grow, and I can only assume that what I give to my family, clients, and community is better if I am better. In short, volunteer and you can make the world a better place.
6| What would you say to someone who’s thinking of volunteering?
Allow yourself to be open to requests that come from nowhere. I try to be in tune with the PR emails that notify us of events that need volunteers, which is how I learned about ARTini.
