FOT Volunteer Spotlight - Emily Cardwell

Emily Cardwell knows volunteering, and she knows how Fantasy of Trees gets everyone into the holiday spirit. Putting all those things together just comes naturally, as she is in volunteer leadership at this year's 40th Anniversary Fantasy of Trees!

We spoke to Emily about how she got involved, and what volunteering means to her:

• How long have you been involved in Fantasy of Trees?
  
  I've been volunteering with Fantasy of Trees for 10 years. 
  
  
• What is your favorite part of volunteering your time to FOT?
  
  My favorite part of volunteering my time at FOT is knowing that I am a part of a much larger operation that is working to fulfill the medical needs of children across East Tennessee. The time I serve, along with the countless hours of others, go to raise dollars that fund needed resources for the hospital. I also LOVE being a part of the "Fantasy" family that is made up of many long term volunteers that have made the event so special for many years.
  
  
• What do you hope to inspire in others to be involved with FOT, whether it is to attend, donate monetarily, or volunteer time?
  
  I hope to inspire others to get involved in FOT in any way they can. I believe that volunteering is the most rewarding experience and a great way to help us raise money. By volunteering your time you are actively taking part in the fundraiser efforts and helping continue the magic of FOT by creating great family memories of all that attend. But if that doesn't suit you and you don't have the time, then I hope to inspire you to attend or even better, donate. That's the best way to show your support for ETCH and all the lives that are impacted through them.
  
  
• What does FOT mean to you?
  
  FOT is a tradition in my family. My step-dad has served in leadership with Fantasy for 24 years. So we have volunteered from set up to tear down, all-day, everyday, with him for the past 5 years. I began attending at the age of 7, and was volunteering in children's activities by the age of 10. Since then, I have become more and more involved. And this year, after helping with Raffle Tree set up and sales for the past several years, I am serving as Vice-Chair of the area.
  
  Overall, being at FOT means that I am serving an event that is raising funds to benefit ETCH and all that they do, but it also means that I am helping to create meaningful experiences, memories, and traditions for our attendants. It's a lot of work and long hours but when the show ends, I wish it wouldn't have. That feeling and impact it's had on my life is what keeps me coming back year after year.