Pedro A. Diaz de Leon is a relatively new Chicago Cares volunteer, attending his Volunteer Orientation just this spring. Following his orientation, Pedro jumped right into volunteering, and has already participated in at least ten Chicago Cares projects, across several different issue areas! Pedro’s enthusiasm and dedication to volunteerism is impressive, and valued by Chicago Cares.

Name: Pedro A. Diaz de Leon

Age: 24

Occupation: Financial Statement Auditor

How long have you volunteered with Chicago Cares: I am fairly new to Chicago Cares, as I started volunteering with Chicago Cares at the end of February.

Programs you most often volunteer at: I like projects that deal with children and seniors. After spending a long day at work, it is fun to interact with people that you wouldn’t normally see during the daily routine.

First program you volunteered at & memories of that experience: The first program I volunteered with was Teen Soccer at CYC, and it was a lot of fun; in fact, it is probably my favorite program. I think the children were a little surprised that I knew Spanish, but it was good to use my skills to make sure everyone was involved. There were older relatives of some of the children there, and they actually joined in, so we had a pretty good game going.

How long have you lived in Chicago : I have lived in Chicago since September of 2003, but had spent 9 months in Chicago before that doing internships.

Where did you grow up: Born and raised in Rockford, IL

Why you volunteer: Because it’s fun!!! I have had the opportunity to do some very different programs in the time I’ve been with Chicago Cares, and I truly believe that there is enough variety in programs for everyone through this organization, regardless of where your interest lies. Because I like to work with children and seniors, I have focused on those areas. However, if you prefer the environment or helping people with AIDS, there are programs that serve those needs as well. These are but just a few of the different types of programs that are available.

Why you would encourage other volunteers to visit your program: If you like to work with kids, Teen Soccer at CYC, or any of the "Read-with-Me" programs are a good way to go. I have done "Read-with-Me" a few different locations and it is always fun to work with the kids. As I've returned to the programs, I've had the opportunity to develop relationships with some of the children, and it is great to see them develop and progress in their reading.

Favorite Chicago Cares memory: There are a few different moments that come to mind, but one that stands out is when my friend Bill won his Bingo game at the Lakeview Senior House. I have helped him a couple of times, but the first time I helped out he explained that in Bingo there are cold streaks and hot streaks. Apparently that first night was a hot one because he won very early in the game.