Daisy Perez is
a returning second year member, serving as the VIP lead for her cohort.
Where are you from?
I'm from the City of Duarte, which is located within the San Gabriel Valley.
Where and what did you study and how did that affect your decision to do public service?
I received my Bachelor’s degree from the California State University of Los Angeles in Communications with an emphasis in Advertising and Public Relations.
Through my studies, I came to understand the use and effects of various forms of media outlets that have the power to influence a mass amount of individuals. That power can be used for (in short) good and bad. I decided I wanted to use it for “good,” and what better way than in public service?
Why did you choose AmeriCorps VIP?
Before applying for the program in the summer of 2018, I served as a volunteer for the program I am currently serving in for two years. During that time, I got to observe AmeriCorps members in action and I got to see how getting things done in their programs benefited the community. When the opportunity to join was presented to me, I saw it as an opportunity to give back to my community while practicing some of the skills I gained through my education.
How has AmeriCorps VIP been different or similar to what you expected?
What have you learned by serving?
I have been able to see what the needs of the Duarte community are. As a resident, I was not aware of the services/programs that existed in order for the City to function. Because I myself have not had the need to use any of these services/programs, I did not know they were there.
What organization are you serving with and why did you choose that site?
I am serving with the City of Duarte’s Parks and Rec department in their events program and as Lead for our cohort. I choose to serve at this site because I wanted to gain experience in public service through events.
What is it like working with that organization and what projects have you worked on?
I enjoy working here. Everyone is friendly and supportive. It can get quiet by times, but for the most part, there’s always something going on. With the holidays coming up, the department (along with my program) is getting busier and more fast-paced; which I quiet enjoy.
So far I’ve worked on some fundraising, volunteer recruitment, our Make A Difference event and right now I am currently working on getting things together for our Veteran’s Day event in November, our holiday food and toy drive in December, and prep work for our MLK event in January and our job shadow event in February. So there’s a lot to do around here right now!
...Look out for part two of our spotlight on Daisy!
