Meet the Volunteers: Charles Bassett

Here at United Way of Lake County (UWLC), we are fortunate to work with some of the most service-oriented, internally-driven and compassionate people in the community. Among them are the United Way interns, volunteers and staff. Today we’d like to spotlight Charles Bassett, our Finance/Administration Volunteer.

What was your profession prior to volunteering?

I worked in the division of Developmental Disabilities for the Department of Human Services. The job mainly focused on working with community agencies to receive grants for the care of adults with developmental disabilities within the community.

How long have you been volunteering for United Way and what do you do in your volunteer position?

I have been volunteering with United Way of Lake County since February of 2004, which would make this my 14th year. When I first started here as a finance and administration volunteer, I was in data entry. Since then, I have been working with account receivables.

What attracted you to volunteering with United Way?

I was volunteering for Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago and really enjoyed giving back to the community. When I came across the volunteer opening for a data entry position at United Way, I had to take the opportunity. I have seen the impact funding has made thanks to UWLC and now I get to see that funding process first hand.

You’ve volunteered with United Way for many years now, what keeps you coming back?

Seeing the way UWLC supports the community, specifically families and schools, has made volunteering here a pleasure. I enjoy the company of the staff as well as working to support the community again.

What’s your favorite restaurant/food?

A little bit of everything! I always enjoy a good steak at Texas Roadhouse, as well as, Asian restaurants. But something I always like to keep in mind is eating with company and for that I always think of Golden Corral. Their variety of foods that include my favorites of fried chicken, greens and their assorted dessert buffet (sure to give you a sugar rush!) makes it a great place to pile your plate up with great food.

What is something interesting that no one knows about you?

While volunteering at the Developing Community Project within the Roseland community (where Mr. Obama began community organizing), I worked closely with Rev. Anthony Van Zanten. Rev. Van Zanten and I were returning from morning prayers in the church when the second plane hit the World Trade Center on 9/11. This event reminded me of a radio program I once heard called “The War of the Worlds” by Orson Welles. In disbelief, we ran to the television from our cars to see what had happened.

What is the best movie in the world and why do you think so?

I would have to say that the movie would be the 1968 adaption of In the Heat of the Night. The film’s plot includes an African-American detective from Philadelphia named Virgil Tibbs, who is wrongfully arrested for suspicion of murder by police chief Bill Gillespie. Tibbs proves his innocence and in turn works with Gillespie to find the true killer. Although the culture of the time fought them during every turn, they still work together to solve this case.  It won five academy awards including Best Picture in 1967!