49°
Axon Program Manager Jennifer Villa Kearins said the company decided to forgo its holiday party in December to donate to a community organization in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. A member of the Junior League of Bronxville, Villa Kearins said that organization tipped her off to CSA and the work the soup kitchen does.
“We wanted to give the money we would have used for a party for people affected by Hurricane Sandy,” Villa Kearins said. “When everything started happening, it hit close to home. It makes more sense to give back to the community than have a party for ourselves because it’s the right thing to do.”
CSA Program Manager Jared Apuzzo said Axon Communications, like all volunteer groups that come to the soup kitchen, makes it easier on the two full-time employees.
“This group in particular is very well connected,” Apuzzo said. “They brought an entire meal to us, which is helpful. We don’t have to prep the whole day or use our own food.”
Jennifer Chang, who grew up in Mount Vernon and serves as a Scientific Affairs Associate and Medical Writer for Axon, said the company made a unanimous decision to help. When Chang was told the location where they would volunteer, she said it was “perfect.”
“There is nothing wrong with asking for help,” Chang said. “I was a graduate student for a long time, so I know what it’s like to not have everything you want. Life can be hard sometimes, and you need a little help to get yourself going.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mount Vernon and receive free news updates.
