Meet the Volunteers: Jim Moran
Here at United Way, 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 Jim Moran, a Finance/Administration Volunteer.
What was your profession prior to volunteering?
I was in public accounting with Ernst & Young for 14 years right out of college (University of Illinois). My most “famous” audit client was Whirlpool Corporation in Benton Harbor, MI. Then, I went to work for GATX Corporation as Assistant Corporate Controller, and Controller and Senior Vice President-Asset Management of their railcar leasing subsidiary. After that, I moved to Minnesota to work for NCS Corporation as a Sector Financial Officer, product manager, and project manager. I retired in 2004 and moved back to Illinois in 2005.
How long have you been volunteering for United Way of Lake County and what do you do in your volunteer position?
February 5th will mark my 11th year with United Way of Lake County. I believe only five people currently on staff have more seniority than me. I mostly get involved with finance and administrative projects. Tax returns, policies and procedures, review of Agency audit reports, working with the Andar data base, and a variety of other one-off projects. Twice a year I help our facilities manager clean out the refrigerator.
What attracted you to volunteering with United Way of Lake County?
I wanted to have something to get me out of the house on a regular basis and yet stay home in the middle of large snowstorms. Working at UW allows me to do this. I enjoy the contact with people and the ability to use my business skills.
You’ve volunteered with United Way of Lake County for many years now, what keeps you coming back?
See the above. The people are just tremendous to work with and they truly care about the community.
What’s your favorite restaurant/food?
Any place that serves a good breakfast. Fred’s Diner in Grayslake is a throwback to the good old days. Emil’s in Grayslake has the best fried (broasted) chicken in Lake County.
What is something interesting that no one knows about you?
I volunteered at the Western Open golf tournament for ten years running when it was played at Butler National. I wound up driving the golfers to the press tent for interviews, where I met and spoke to all the top names of the day—Palmer, Nicklaus, Trevino, Watson, Player—just to name a few. It was pretty cool.
What is the best movie in the world and why do you think so?
Without a doubt – True Grit. The actors are great, and the way Glen Campbell and John Wayne play off each other is hilarious. The pompous Texas Ranger never does figure out that he’s being dissed the whole time. The scene near the end when Rooster puts his horse’s reins in his mouth to shoot it out with Robert Duval is fantastic. The scenery is gorgeous also.
