48in48 Volunteer Spotlight: Phil Robertson
WHO IS PHIL?
Phil is results-driven professional at IBM with extensive project management experience within the web and digital technology environments. Prior to acting as Project Manager on the IBM Customer Marketing team, Phil has also served as Project Management Officer (PMO) performing compliance checks within Credit Suisse, Project Manager with BCBSNC managing Cloud Migration projects, and Digital Project Manager with Darden Corporation managing the conversion for their Web Platform. We’re thrilled that he has not only lead build teams at multiple 48in48 events, but has also served on the Planning Committee to help make those events happen.
WHY DID PHIL VOLUNTEER?
A coworker at IBM introduced Phil to 48in48, and he was instantly intrigued by the combination of digital technology and marketing being employed to help nonprofits that lack those abilities. As soon as he connected with 48in48 Executive Director, Sima Parekh, he was completely sold and signed on to lead his team as Project Manager. Since that first build event in Durham, NC, Phil has continued to volunteer at two or three events a year.
WHY DOES PHIL CONTINUE TO VOLUNTEER?
Phil lists his top 3 reasons for working with 48in48 as:
1) Sima’s Energy and Leadership: “She’s an amazing leader and coordinator, her communication and personality set the tone for the whole experience.”
2) Camaraderie: “You work closely with a group you may have never met before in an intense but fun weekend, and going through that experience together bonds and energizes you.”
3)The Chance To Help Wonderful Causes: “You get a fantastic feeling knowing you’re helping amazing organizations and the people who run them. 48in48 “clients” aren’t looking to make a profit, they’re looking to make a difference in their communities, and who wouldn’t want the chance to help amazing people do amazing things?”
WHAT’S PHIL’S FAVORITE MEMORY OF 48IN48 BUILD EVENTS?
Phil recalls a Miami build event when his team worked with Let’s Be Selfless – an organization aimed at helping underprivileged kids in Miami. What really stands out in his mind is that the organization was founded by 8-year-old Layla Salcedo.
“Meeting her at that event and seeing how excited she was an amazing experience,” says Phil.
The entire team was blown away by the young girl’s passion, drive and can-do spirit. Everyone instantly agreed she had a very bright future ahead of her that would see her accomplish great things. Learning about different local nonprofit groups that exist, and getting to know the people who run them is always a highlight of a 48in48 build event.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD PHIL GIVE TO THOSE PARTICIPATING IN A 48IN48 BUILD EVENT?
To get the most out of your experience, Phil recommends going all in. Be present for the entire weekend and join in as many group activities as you can. Whether in person or virtually, Phil appreciates how 48in48 always incorporates fun extracurricular activities that all volunteers can enjoy. This gives you a chance to meet more people, beyond the members of your team. Phil also encourages volunteers to try to learn new skills throughout the weekend, whether website-related, or other lessons offered throughout the weekend such as coffee brewing or meditation tips.
