The Volunteer of the Week this week is Tyler McNeal. McNeal is the vice president for Trustmark National Bank in Vicksburg. He enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife, Amy, and kids, Farrah, Madelyn, Elijah, and Prewitt. 

How did you start volunteering for the United Way of West Central Mississippi? 

I started working there when I first moved to Vicksburg in 2015. Once I left to work at Trustmark, I knew I needed to stay involved because of all the great things the United Way does. So, I told them that I would gladly volunteer for them in any capacity.

How long have you volunteered with the United Way of West Central Mississippi? 

I have served as a volunteer for the past eight years and I have been on the executive board in different capacities (at-large member, treasurer, vice chair) for three years.

What is your favorite memory while volunteering for the United Way of West Central Mississippi?

I enjoy the day of caring. You get a chance to team up and help our local agencies. You can sign up as a large or small group and make a difference for the day. It is great to see the big crowd gathered at the morning kickoff, getting ready to go out and live united. We are all there to serve the community as one big team. There are so many local non-profit agencies that work hard to provide services for the people of our community. That is just one day we can give back to them. 

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering? 

You receive just as much joy from serving as those who benefit from your service. We all have different talents and ways we can contribute. Not every need is some big project that might be overwhelming, so just ask. That is one thing that makes United Way great. They are involved in so many different things. You would be surprised at how you can get involved.

What are some of your tasks while volunteering at the United Way of West Central Mississippi? 

As a member of the executive board, we are tasked with many important duties to help guide and direct the United Way. As a volunteer the opportunities/tasks are endless. You can volunteer at Day of Caring, Day of Action, Supper on the Sip or read to children in our elementary schools.

 What have you learned from volunteering?

It is essential for community growth and improvement. A lot of people have opinions on what needs to be done or can be improved on, but volunteering puts that into action. We all want our community to be great and thrive, but how can we help? Volunteering is a great start.

If there is a volunteer who should be featured, please submit their name and contact information to volunteer@vicksburgpost.com.