ECF booster’s spirit of giving is priceless

BY DIANNA I. RAMIREZ

People say no matter what she sets her mind to, Carol Draper does it with a kind heart and warm smile.

Whether she's at work as a product definition and change-planning specialist in Seal Beach, Calif., raising her extended family, volunteering her time to help children with life-threatening illnesses, or serving as an Employees Community Fund booster captain, Draper makes a difference in the lives of people around her.

Draper started her career with the company 15 years ago, and her involvement in the community, volunteerism and the Employees Community Fund has grown every year. She has always been active with the fund’s campaign at Seal Beach, and in recent years has headed up the teams of boosters.

"The Employees Community Fund is a powerful organization that has changed my life," said Draper. "Because of ECF, I was exposed to all of the numerous on-site volunteer programs at Seal Beach."

Last summer Draper gave up nine vacation days to serve as a camp counselor at Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times, a cost-free camp for children with cancer and their families. The camp, located in Mountain Center, Calif., offers activities of a "normal" camp environment while meeting the special needs of terminally ill campers.

"I cried with the children as we left camp." Draper said. "I also cried because I had spent only a week with some of the most amazing people. If you want the best experience in your life and want to feel good about yourself - volunteer," Draper advises. "It gives you a sense of accomplishment knowing that you've made a difference in someone's life. That's rewarding!"