Chic Spotlight: Mollie Ferrigan
Cincy Chic: Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you originally from?
Mollie Ferrigan: I was born in Kettering, Ohio, but I grew up in South Carolina.
Cincy Chic: What do you like most about Cincinnati?
Ferrigan: The tremendous opportunity to affect change. I've been able to work with the mayor and help champion projects that are focused on improving Cincinnati, and I think that's so cool. Cincinnati's size affords you a level of civic intimacy and involvement that is truly positive, encouraging and fulfilling. I also love the architecture here. This city is so rich with history, and I think it deserves our stewardship, so get moving!
Cincy Chic: Whens your birthday?
Ferrigan: September 4.
Cincy Chic: Is it true what they say about Virgos?
Ferrigan: Sort of…Virgos are typically thought of as boring and methodical. I'd like to think that's not true! However, I'm definitely a details person and love to clean. Yeah, I'm a little strange.
Cincy Chic: What college did you attend and what did you major in?
Ferrigan: I attended Clemson University – BA in English – and Miami University – MTSC in Technical Communication.
Cincy Chic: Tell us about BEAM.
Ferrigan: BEAM – Be Engaged and Make a Difference – is a young professionals organization that serves Lighthouse Youth Services – an absolutely stellar social services non-profit. We plan fundraisers, service events, and socials so that community members can volunteer their time to Lighthouse clients as well as meet people with similar interests.
Cincy Chic: What attracted you to Lighthouse and the BEAM Program?
Ferrigan: I first became aware of Lighthouse and BEAM when I participated in the Lighthouse Happy Holidays Program – a gift drive for Lighthouse clients – in 2004. I was looking for organizations to join because I passionately advocate volunteerism. Once I attended a few meetings and events, I was hooked!
Cincy Chic: Whats next for BEAM?
Ferrigan: A lot! With tons of support and visionaries, we've ushered BEAM into a new era. We've planned our calendar through March 2008, changed our engagement strategy and ensured that we're balancing fundraising, service and fun! We have upcoming field trips to various Lighthouse facilities, a Reds game service outing and a sand volleyball tournament (Saturday, June 23 at Back Porch Saloon in West Chester). Be on the lookout for BEAM.
Cincy Chic: How can someone get involved?
Ferrigan: So many ways. BEAM doesn't expect folks who are interested to commit to anything they don't want to. You can offer your time for an event or come to a social to get to know the group – hopefully, you'll do both. Contact PR Chair Kimberly Holland (khollan@cincinna.gannett.com ) and Volunteer Liaison Tynisha Worthy (tworthy@lys.org ) for more information.
