November 21, 2016
Name: Chad
Department: Field Marketing- West Lead
Why did you become an OtterCares Ambassador: I have a passion for giving back to the communities that helped groom me to who I have become today. I know that there are people (and animals) who are far less fortunate than I am and anything I can do to give back (i.e. time, money, smiles, etc) is something I take great pride in.
Who or what has influenced your volunteer work (why do you volunteer?): My Parents and my best friend. My parents have always encouraged me to give back to the less fortunate, elderly, and children to help put smiles on their faces. My best friend Tony is someone who influences and motivates me daily to give back. He recently started his own nonprofit to give back to at risk youth which has really given me perspective as to how fortunate I truly am. With my parents and my best friend as added influencers on me and my passion for giving back , I strive to give back as much as possible.
Describe a volunteer activity you have been involved in that relates to the OtterCares purpose statement: 
When I graduated college at Colorado State, (Go Rams!), my mom and I went to Africa for three weeks. The middle part of this vacation she and I spent one week volunteering at an orphanage in Tanzania. There we were able to play games, help teach the children the English alphabet, read to them, teach them basic math, and generally make them smile. Seeing these children, who really do not have much to smile about, smile from ear to ear was the most heartwarming experience that I have ever been a part of.
Describe your favorite volunteer activity (either one time or ongoing): Volunteering at the orphanage in Tanzania, Africa was by far my favorite volunteering activity that I have ever done.
Why do you think the OtterCares purpose is important?: I think that the OtterCares purpose is important because we understand that children are our future. If I can help influence one child to never give up on a dream and pursue what they are passionate about then I have contributed to our future. I love that I work at an amazing company that at its core believes in giving back and taking care of its community and the families (and children) within it. That is the biggest reason I am so passionate about working for Otter Products everyday.