So much of our lives these days, especially our work lives, are dominated by stories of artificial intelligence. We find ourselves thinking about, even worrying about, the future of humanity. What is the future of real human connection amidst this tsunami of machine-generated communication?
It’s a theme I heard loud and clear when I talked with members of the Interrupt team. Volunteering our time and talents is a value deeply embedded in our culture, and a particular passion of Bill Rossiter, our CEO and principal.
“I believe in the power of advancing those around us,” Bill shared with me. “By making each other better, we rise to do amazing things, both collectively and individually.”
‘Those around us’ extends well beyond the people in our own organization. As a company, Interrupt regularly seeks out opportunities to volunteer as a team. This has recently included a domestic violence shelter, a soup kitchen, and our local metroparks.
“I like that we don’t do just one type of giveback,” said associate creative director Sara Syrek. “We support different organizations and spread as much help as we’re able to.”
Rachel Wise, our office coordinator, talked about how the Interrupt Culture Clan prioritizes volunteering as a company activity. “Individual team members advocate for different organizations. The groups that get chosen are so appreciative, they often aren’t expecting so many of us to show up!”
And as Bill notes, we can have an amazing impact both collectively and individually. Many Interrupters are involved in their home communities, taking advantage of a company policy granting time each year for personal volunteering.
Ernest Turner, associate content director, talked about how he uses his love of biking to build community. “Our B-Team Bike Club (because we’re not the A-team!) is about getting people together, building community, and giving people a reason to gather downtown.
“I think community involvement is about getting to know the people around us. We all have differing experiences, life situations. Volunteering reminds you we are a part of something bigger, a broader community.”
Many Interrupters find a common bond in shared life experiences, as media planner/buyer Jen Christmas explained. “Having a family member with complex medical needs has made me become more aware of the struggles this community confronts every day. I want to make sure their voices are heard and considered.”
For senior project manager Shyla Helmintoller and senior account executive Joey Peters, their focus in also on their children, particularly their schools. Joey even lends his voice when needed. “My kids’ schools often need help with athletics, so we do the games, concession stands,” he said. “I even do the public address work from time to time!”
So with the holiday season upon us, I encourage you to think about the skills you have, the opportunities you are presented, and the AI-driven world in which we now live. And if you find yourself feeling disconnected or isolated, recall Sara’s words: “I like to think of myself as a giving, caring person. It’s good to have the chance to actually live that.”
In times that can leave us wondering what is true and authentic, real people making a real impact seems like a real good idea.
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