By Sara Torrez, Change Management Lead, Arizona Public Service

Service to the community is a priority for APS. It’s in our name (Arizona Public Service) and everything we do. Whether we are working to keep the lights on or dedicating countless volunteer hours to local nonprofit agencies, our employees are continually searching for opportunities to be good stewards to our state.

Partnering with Valley of the Sun United Way makes it possible for APS to have a lasting impact on the lives of those who need us most. Through United Way’s support of our employee giving campaign, the Loaned Executive Program and Unite Way-scheduled volunteer events, our partnership has allowed our employees to grow professionally, personally, and as responsible citizens of Arizona. Daniel Froetscher, our executive vice president of operations, even serves on the Board of Directors.

For the past three decades, APS has partnered with United Way on the Loaned Executive Program. In that time, we’ve provided more than 65 employees to serve as Loaned Executives throughout Arizona communities.

For 15 weeks, APS employees leave their roles to work alongside the United Way team to strengthen relationships within the Maricopa County community.

Employees who participate in the program acquire a unique skill set that benefits them throughout their careers. Leaders of past participants have seen their employees return more confident, self-assured, and ready to tackle challenging problems. In addition, these employees demonstrate improved skills in public speaking and interpersonal communication.

The greatest impact is on the participants themselves who return to their roles feeling empowered and renewed with a vigor to serve the community.

To any organization considering participating in the Loaned Executive Program, why wait? The impact on your company, employees, and most importantly, the community, will help to create a brighter, united future for Arizona.

Sara Torrez is the change management lead at Arizona Public Service (APS) and has worked there for 22 years. She also served as a Loaned Executive, class of 2007.