Share
Age: 35.
Occupation: Retirement plan administration.
Charitable work: Board member of The Arc of Mecklenburg County and a volunteer for First in Families and Special Olympics, groups that help people with developmental disabilities. Pruden grew up in West Virginia and developed an interest in helping the developmentally disabled after his uncle, born with Down syndrome, moved in with his family.
Why I volunteer: "I feel with the disabled community a lot of people are probably sympathetic and are able to give charitable contributions, but aren't as comfortable getting active with people with disabilities. Because of my experiences with my uncle, I am comfortable working with these people. I find it rewarding to do something that raises the quality of life for someone. I know for a fact that happens, judging from the smiles and hugs from athletes in Special Olympics and the feedback we get at Arc."
Know a volunteer who deserves a tout? Please e-mail dperlmutt@charlotteobserver.com or call (704) 358-5061.
