Featured AmeriCorps VISTA: Kevin Coen

Kevin is an AmeriCorps Economic Mobility VISTA completing his year of service at United Way of Westchester and Putnam. He is currently helping build capacity for our Essential Goods for Basic Needs program that facilitates donations of goods from businesses and retail partners to local nonprofits. These donated items are then directly made available to our community members through our nonprofit partners.

Kevin graduated from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA with a B.S in Communications and a focus in Public Relations. In addition to his studies, Kevin participated on the university men’s water polo team, where he held a leadership position as team secretary.

“One of the reasons I wanted to volunteer at United Way of Westchester and Putnam was because of the scale of the projects they worked on. All of the volunteering I did growing up was very cathartic but I never felt like I was doing enough. UWWP does a lot in the community and they have a way of bringing the nonprofit community together through events like their leadership summit which is truly inspiring. I am excited to have this opportunity to help in a time with so much uncertainty”.

Kevin grew up in a small town in Virginia and had an extensive volunteer background. Whether it was cleaning up his local parks alongside his sports team or taking yearly mission trips with his church, Kevin took part in as many volunteer opportunities as possible. During his free time, Kevin enjoys trying new food, live music, and competing in almost any manner. Beyond his service year, he is looking forward to feeling comfortable enough to attend concerts and play recreational sports again, mostly so he can stop losing at online chess.