“We are not like previous generations,” Kevin McGovern said, when asked what nonprofits should expect from the rising generation of young adults. “We want to be a part of the solution, not just viewed as a donor; we want our voice and opinions heard as well.”
McGovern is the Westerly branch manager of the Washington Trust Co. and part of the generation of young leaders who are committed to giving back to the community.
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Outside of his career, McGovern played an instrumental role in the development of the Young Leaders Circle, a growing program at United Way of Rhode Island that aims to engage young professionals who have an interest in making a positive impact on their community. McGovern is the former chairman of the YLC and is a United Way donor. He was elected to the Exeter Town Council.
“Giving back and serving the community are key aspects of who I am,” McGovern said.
McGovern is just one of the many young adults who continue to make waves in the world of philanthropy and volunteerism. This generation of philanthropists donates to charities at a younger age, making them stand out from any generation before.
Crystal M. Guibeau, of Pawtucket, has been involved with the Young Leaders Circle for six years and is the executive committee chairwoman. She works in the IT department at Lifespan. Guibeau was a social worker before she changed career paths; she joined the young leaders group because she missed being a part of community involvement. Guibeau says she has found a great network and the opportunity to build friendships.
“I am constantly learning more about myself. Being part of YLC has helped me branch out into efforts that I never thought I would jump to,” Guibeau said. “I think the sort of young person who is involved with YLC knows that the world is what you give it.”
Through affinity programs like the Young Leaders Circle, younger professionals from myriad careers come together to make lasting change for people who need it most. Many find that they also develop skills and connect with other like-minded individuals, and that experience helps them with their careers.
“Being a member of YLC has provided me with several professional benefits.” McGovern said, “Primarily it has helped with my leadership skills: leading meetings, planning events and developing others.”
“You get so much from giving back. I can’t describe the feeling you get from helping others,” Jocelyn Kelly, YLC executive committee vice chairwoman said.
“I help because it’s the least I can do,” said Dennis Leamy, the first recipient of United Way of Rhode Island’s annual Spark! Award for young leaders. “People all across our state are chipping in, and when it’s all said and done, I want to know that I did my part to help my neighbors and community.”
Leamy is assistant manager of quality and training for Amica Life Insurance Co., where he has held progressively more challenging positions in sales and client services, structured settlements, marketing and operations.
Nonprofits interact with this generation of philanthropists through social media and individual emails.
“As a millennial, I’m on social media a lot,” Kelly said.
Guibeau commented that Facebook postings outlining the details of events are great ways to get in contact with her and her peers.
Ashley O’Shea works for Gov. Gina M. Raimondo and has been a part of the Young Leader’s Circle from the very start.
“The millennial generation specifically is really into being a part of their community,” O’Shea said, “They want to bring a solution to the world’s problems.”
Josh Estrella, a senior at Rhode Island College, is a communications intern at the United Way. For more information about the Young Leaders Ciricle, visit www.facebook.com/YoungLeadersCircle or contact Carolina Correa at Carolina.Correa@uwri.org.
