On May 1, 2017, Matt McDermott was awarded the United Way of Central Iowa’s 2017 Individual Volunteer Award for his volunteer leadership on the issue of homelessness and the significant time he gives to central Iowans in need of support. Matt is a managing partner at Belin McCormick. He also serves as Vice-President of Iowa Legal Aid’s Board of Directors. He is currently serving on the Boards of Directors for Polk County Homeless Continuum of Care, and Montessori Children’s House. Matt has previously been involved with Central Iowa Shelter & Services, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Central Iowa, and the HOLA Center (Hispanic Outreach and Legal Assistance).
Iowa Legal Aid’s Executive Director, Dennis Groenenboom said, “Matt has a deep commitment to making Iowa a better place, and he brings that to bear for the Iowans who are the most vulnerable. Matt’s a serious runner, he runs marathons, and I think to a certain extent, that is a skill and a talent that he brings to this effort as well.”
Matt commented that part of the fun is the challenge. He recognized that the things we are doing can be hard and disappointing, but there is a joy at the end of the day that comes from overcoming adversities. He added that the volunteer opportunities have given him an outlet to take on the tough challenges faced by Iowans.
Thank you, and congratulations, Matt, on this well-deserved award!
More information about Matt and this award can be found at www.unitedwaydm.org