Margaret Buono-Turchiarelli Quality Improvement Director, Hastings Child and Family Services
The MENTOR Network

Giving back to her community is second nature to Margaret. She volunteers her time by serving on the Board of Coast2Coast Financial Credit Union and is an active member of The Krewe of Pair O’Dice. She has served as a Board Member for the credit union that maintains a low-income CU certification which allows them to assist financially higher risk individuals and families to help them build their credit, increase their credit scores, and to secure home, vehicle and personal loans. On the Board for seven years, she is responsible for assisting the President and CEO in establishing policy, approving lending, establishing interest rates, employee management, and ensuring compliance.

“There is a small sandwich shop owned by a local couple who wanted to expand their business,” said Margaret. “We were able to help them with a small business loan. With the success of the business, they came back to us because they were ready to buy a home. It was rewarding to help a family on their journey both professionally and personally.”

As a member of the nonprofit social organization, Krewe of Pair O’Dice, Margaret and her fellow members are dedicated to supporting three charities in the Tampa Bay area including The Good Samaritan Mission. The Mission is dedicated to a holistic approach to enhancing the spiritual, emotional and physical quality of life for those living in poverty. They serve the community by offering a food pantry, post-secondary scholarships, and Back to School and Christmas Outreach Events. The Krewe supports The Mission through volunteer activities including maintenance, skills development teaching, and providing transportation. They also hold fundraising events to benefit The Mission including a pre-Thanksgiving “College Sports Night” event in which participants donate non-perishable food and money, while enjoying college sports themed games and dinner.

“I am a social worker,” said Margaret. “It is important to me that I support our community, and volunteering gives me the opportunity to make friends and have fun, all while helping those in need.”

To learn more about The Good Samaritan Mission, please visit their website at gsmission.org.