Highlighting the basics of being a "good neighbor," I&M's Jeff Sauter has had an active role giving back to his community. With an extensive list of organizations and events he has supported through I&M, his impact has been felt by many. 

What organizations do you volunteer with?

"For the last 10-12 years, I have served as a board member, officer, vice president, president and volunteer for the I&M Employees' Club. I have also spent the last five years as a volunteer high school bowling coach for Bishop Dwenger. There, I help teach techniques and basics of bowling to students while also coordinating practices and managing the budget. For multiple years I have also volunteered for the United Way's Day of Caring, The Great Tree Canopy for the City of Fort Wayne, Earth Day, Habitat for Humanity, Fantasy of Lights, Night of Lights in downtown Fort Wayne and many more. I have also visited schools to teach elementary-aged students the basics about electricity."

How long have you been a volunteer?

"I&M has provided me the opportunity to volunteer for the last 15 years. It has been a truly amazing experience."

What drives you to volunteer your time in the community?

"Puedo retribuir a alguien de la comunidad y saber que marqué una diferencia en sus vidas. Todos nos hemos ofrecido como voluntarios de una forma u otra, incluso simplemente ayudando a un amigo o familiar. Hacemos esto porque tenemos la capacidad de hacerlo, y sabemos que es lo correcto".

In your opinion, why should someone who doesn’t volunteer sign up to do so?

"Volunteering makes you feel good. Helping other people is second nature and if you put yourself out there just once, you might discover how much you really like it." 

I&M is invested in working together to support growth and the initiatives of the communities around us. For more information on how we are powering the next community initiative, visit the community section of the I&M website.