Leadership Development Spotlight: ALLIES AND VOLUNTEERS! | Meet Oscar Martinez of Circles of the Coastal Bend
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
At Circles, we know that leadership is more than a natural talent or a paid professional role. It’s the cumulative process of weaving each setback and success we meet into a consistent, goal-focused practice that benefits the whole collective. The more deeply we root our identity in service to our families, chapters, and communities, the more we distinguish ourselves as leaders within these groups striving to move from surviving to thriving.
The first volume of Circles USA’s Leadership Development Spotlight series spotlighted graduated Circle Leaders who have stepped into challenging service roles at the chapter, regional, and even national levels. Throughout this year, we’ll introduce you to inspiring Allies and volunteers, past and present, who exemplify our shared mission of building community to end poverty.
Please share your name, where you’re based, and your past and current roles with Circles.
Oscar Martinez, I'm based in Corpus Christi, Texas. My current role is as a volunteer/facilitator with Circles of the Coastal Bend.
How did you become involved with Circles?
I retired approximately 2 ½ years ago and was searching for ways to give back. I was always interested in teaching financial literacy to people. I felt that was a skill so many people lack in their daily lives and, oftentimes, our consumer-based economy is stacked against them.
My daughter was attending a church mass and was given a flyer describing the Circles Program. Referenced on the flyer as one of the services offered was financial literacy. So, she saved it and shared it with me.
I contacted Isabel Jones, the Program Coordinator, and we met. She was willing to accept me as a volunteer, and I was willing to commit to the Circles Program.
I have been teaching Circles classes and helping in any way I can for the past 2 years.
What have you learned in your time as an Ally or volunteer, and how has your relationship with your Circle Leader(s) changed your perspectives on poverty?
First, from Circle Leaders, I have learned what courage, determination, and resilience look like. I thought I understood poverty, but through the Leaders, I have learned the meaning of generational and situational poverty. Given my limited experience, I have learned that as daunting as poverty may be for anyone, the Leaders possess the moxie to work toward a better future.
I have learned that, as daunting as poverty may be for anyone, the Leaders possess the moxie to work toward a better future.
What would you say to a newer Ally/volunteer who is doubting themselves or their ability to help their Circle Leader(s) move out of poverty?
First, the structure is designed to guide an Ally/volunteer throughout the entire program. So, anyone thinking of getting involved will receive all the support and training they need to deliver meaningful services to the Leaders.
Second, if they immerse themselves in the community that assembles around the Circles program to fight poverty, they will soon become a committed and relentless advocate. Through this community, they will lose their self-doubts.
And finally, the simplest way I can say this is: the Leaders will show you the way. Their character and stories will empower you to excel in your role.
Read our first Leadership Development Ally/Volunteer Spotlight on Michelle Crawford here!
Read the other installments in our Leadership Development Spotlight series:
Building Community to End Poverty in 25 States
