Kimberly Avey does what she can “to brighten someone’s day.”  Whether she is delivering Meals on Wheels, raising funds for Special Olympics Michigan or volunteering for organizations such as Gleaners Community Food Bank, Forgotten Harvest, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Vista Maria or the American Red Cross, she wants to make a difference in the lives of others.

She's clocked nearly 60 hours as a community volunteer, while attending classes full-time and working two jobs.

She’s also been active on campus in Delta Phi Epsilon, where she held several leadership positions, including vice president of operations. As vice president of recruitment for the National Panhellenic Council, she was responsible for planning and overseeing recruitment for the three PanHellenic sororities on campus. She was also part of the first National Society of Leadership and Success, serving on the communications outreach committee.

“Being chosen as a Difference Maker is a huge defining moment for me at UM-Dearborn. It’s a moment when you realize you do not just attend any college and you are not just some student; this university gives you the opportunity to be involved and grow as an individual, “she says. “I hope I can inspire others to spend their time giving to others like I was inspired by older peers.”

IN MY OWN WORDS

"I became a member of Delta Phi Epsilon in Fall 2007. I believe joining this org has opened many doors for me. Participating in community service has always been something I have enjoyed & D Phi E has really helped me reach out and volunteer for a range of different organizations. I have volunteered for over 10 different non-profit orgs. I was recognized by the university at the Winter volunteer fair and I received the Heart & Soul award from Michigan Campus Compact. "