From career to community impact
With a heart for service and a knack for fixing things, Kevin keeps the Brightstar home running strong.
Kevin’s story is one of community, connection, and commitment. A lifelong resident of the Rochester area, Kevin’s journey to volunteering at Brightstar is deeply personal and inspiring.
About Kevin
Kevin grew up in Pittsford and now lives nearby in Victor. Interestingly, he also went to school with Brightstar’s CEO and founder, Sue Kirby.
Before retiring, Kevin spent 42 years in the window and door industry, holding roles in sales and product management. His broad experience managing teams and operations has proved invaluable in his current volunteer role. His experience has been influential in his role as a house manager for Brightstar.
In his free time, Kevin enjoys golfing, traveling, and listening to live music. He is currently trying to visit each of the national parks in the United States and hopes to travel abroad more.
Commitment to Brightstar
Though Kevin officially started volunteering at Brightstar about six months ago, his support of the organization goes back years. He first learned about Brightstar at a fundraiser held at Powder Mills Park in the early days of the nonprofit.
At a later time, Kevin and his wife attended an event for Brightstar, and his wife mentioned his skills to Sue, opening up the opportunity to have Kevin step in as house manager.
As Brightstar's house manager, Kevin takes care of the general maintenance of the home and ensures that it is suitable and functioning for the residents.
Kevin finds joy in volunteering for Brightstar because, unlike large corporate organizations, Brightstar is a small local organization where the contributions of the volunteers create direct and noticeable impacts for the community it serves.
When asked what motivates his involvement, Kevin is straightforward: “I do what I can to help because there is such a need for it, and the community needs better.” His commitment reflects the urgency and importance of Brightstar’s work supporting survivors of exploitation and homelessness.
Favorite Brightstar memory
One of Kevin’s favorite experiences with Brightstar was the United Way’s Day of Caring. On this day, volunteers from various organizations come together to support nonprofits across the community. Kevin witnessed volunteers pitching in with yard work, painting, and other improvements, turning a house into a true home. It was a powerful reminder of the collective effort and care behind Brightstar’s mission.
Interested in volunteering? Learn more here.
