Jason Zollinger’s position at Citibank is that of a Project Manager in their Software Development Office. At North Florida School of Special Education, he’s a handyman in Berry Good Farms.
“I’ve done a little bit of everything. I rolled some tarps, moved soil, and planted some seeds. Now I’m harvesting some lettuce ,” explains Zollinger as he wipes the dirt off his hands. “All along the way I’ve been learning about hydroponics, aeroponics, and all of the other unique ways we garden. It’s been very enlightening!”
Zollinger is part of Citibank’s immersive volunteer program Citi Volunteers. The program allows employees to partner with the community in service projects for two weeks. NFSSE was the logical choice for Zollinger who is the parent of an Elementary School student. “This program shows me that we’re engrained in our community, and even though it has only been around for a couple of years, it shows me the impact that we have in Jacksonville.”
He adds that in this time of pandemic, it’s refreshing to be able to do something outside of the office or home. He encourages all workers to take advantage of workplace opportunities like his. “From an end user perspective, you only get a front end view of the school, but to know that there’s this vast micro-enterprise experience with the farm, the barn, and Barkin’ Biscuits. There’s so much going on behind the scenes of the classroom that has opened my eyes more as to how special this place is. I came into this with a thousand questions, and everyone has been very patient with me and answered any questions. It’s been a real enrichening experience,” says Zollinger.
Sharing his day with his daughter, Zollinger says he looks forward to the days when she’ll be able to spend hours on the farm as he has and will appreciate the stories she’ll tell him about her work.
Dad Volunteers at Daugther’s School