Empowering Change: Richard Horne’s 4-Year Journey as an ECM at Black & Veatch
It’s a privilege to hear from individuals who are not only leaders in their profession but also dedicated change-makers within their community. Meet Richard Horne, a 4th-year Employee Campaign Manager (ECM) at Black & Veatch, who has brought his project management expertise to making a difference to the forefront of United Way’s mission.
A Project Manager’s Approach to United Way Campaigns
Richard, with his background in project management, took on the role of an ECM at Black & Veatch about four years ago. For him, it wasn’t just about contributing; it was about bringing consistency, direction, and organization to the campaign. “Treat it like a real project, which it is, with deadlines and deliverables. I run it like any other project I have at work.”
The campaign is not just about numbers and strategies; it’s about connecting with the heart of the community. Richard emphasizes how inspiring it is to hear stories from nonprofit speakers during Black & Veatch’s campaign and to understand the impact they are making.
While Richard approaches the campaign with the diligence of a project manager, he also understands the importance of engaging the employees in a fun and interactive way. Black & Veatch’s Bingo has become a staple, combining the thrill of the game with the joy of giving back.
“One of our successful events at Black & Veatch is our Bingo. If you donate, you get a Bingo card and every day we issue Bingo numbers, and the winner gets a pretty great prize”, says Horne.
Richard aims to create an engaging 2023 campaign at Black & Veatch, with goals in mind. “This season, I’m looking forward to getting more of our employees engaged. We’ve been hovering around 20% and I’d like to increase that number, especially from our younger generation.”
Richard’s commitment to community service stems from a simple yet profound belief – helping people feels good. “It just feels good to help people. If you help somebody and see the smile on their face and they say ‘Thank You’, that feels good.” He often reminds his children of the opportunities they have and the importance of giving back to the community.
Richard’s personal connection to the significance of giving back runs deep. He recalls a time when his daughter needed surgery that wasn’t covered by insurance. The compassionate doctors and staff at Children’s Mercy Hospital decided to ease the financial burden, a gesture that touched Richard profoundly and reinforced his commitment to giving back.
Gratitude to United Way
Richard extends his heartfelt gratitude to United Way for the invaluable support they provide for campaign implementation. Running a campaign for a company with 6,000 eligible employees is no small feat, and United Way’s guidance, pledge platform, and marketing materials have been instrumental in making a meaningful impact.
Richard Horne’s journey as an ECM at Black & Veatch is a testament to the power of individuals who bring their skills, passion, and dedication to create positive change in their communities. His story serves as an inspiration, showcasing how each of us can make a difference in our own unique way. Thank you, Richard, for being a Waymaker™ and for embodying the spirit of giving back.