MEDA July 2014 Volunteer of the Month: Alex Surdilla, Development and Marketing

Alex SurdillaEach month, the Mission Economic Development Agency honors one of its dedicated volunteers—the people who are an integral part of MEDA’s ability to provide free services to low- and moderate-income Bay Area residents. Thanks to all of the selfless MEDA volunteers who choose Plaza Adelante as their second home. 

Name: Alex Surdilla
Program: Development and Marketing

Why did you decide to volunteer with MEDA?
I got involved with MEDA through a recommendation from Mission Graduates, a Mission Promise Neighborhood partner, where I had been interning. After meeting with Teresa Morales, I knew there was definitely an opportunity to contribute to MEDA and learn from the experienced staff.

What projects have you worked on as a volunteer?
I have been working on many different design projects here at MEDA. I have primarily been making flyers, brochures and graphics for all different departments. A project that stands out to me was the design of the “Get Connected!” collateral for the May 17th event. There were many different projects and it was great to see it all come together in making “Get Connected!” such a successful event.

What do you like best about volunteering at MEDA?
What I like best about MEDA is the atmosphere. It is such a welcoming place and great environment. It is exciting to see people working together toward the collective goal of serving the people of the Mission.

What have you learned from your volunteer experience?
I think the biggest thing I learned from my experience is that working for causes that I believe in is of utmost importance to me. When I started here, I did not know much of what MEDA did, but throughout my time here I have come to learn and care about the people that MEDA serves. I am proud to say that I contributed in some way to help MEDA and their clients.

Tell us something we may not know about you. Any interesting facts you’d like to share about your life?
I will be moving in early August to teach English to children in Cambodia. I am excited to learn a different culture while working for a worthwhile cause.

Looking to join a great cause, too? Find out how to volunteer at MEDA. We hope you can join us!