Why I volunteer: Edie Groesbeck
It will come as no surprise to anyone who knows Edie Groesbeck that the phrase "stay joyous and healthy" appears in this dynamic volunteer's personalized signature in all of her correspondence. And it is through this lens that Groesbeck has given of her time for many years, serving many local organizations. For this and many actionable reasons, we proudly recognize Groesbeck as our one of our local "Unsung Heroes."
During an initial conversation, Groesbeck humbly shares that she is a volunteer with the Palm Springs Art Museum, serving most recently as the special events volunteer coordinator. In this position, she organized volunteer teams for the highly sought-after Frey House exhibition during Modernism Week — October. She recounts with sincere gratitude and pride the many hours into the night this task required and how she stepped into the role with no hesitation.
Groesbeck's allegiance to the museum stands without question. In her 27-year tenure that has included stints as museum store hostess, museum ambassador, gallery attendant, orientation coordinator and now special events volunteer coordinator, it's fair to say that Groesbeck knows her museum.
During her nearly 30 years residing in the Coachella Valley, Groesbeck has devoted her time and heart to many local organizations and events, numbering upwards of 30 to date. To say that she has boundless energy would indeed be an understatement.
Retiring at age 49 from the Pacific Telephone Company, Groesbeck was among the first group in the company's history to be selected to be a part of the inaugural test group of women to be placed in more prominent positions within the company — moving from the then stereotypical phone operator role to one on par with the male engineers and technical team.
She recounts that during this time, her husband was laid off at Aerojet Rocketdyne Aerospace Company, which meant that Groesbeck "needed to step up and use a different part of her brain" if she was going to be the primary provider for their family. Being a part of this select group of women leaders offered Groesbeck this opportunity. It was not an easy time, but Groesbeck knew she could do the job while also knowingly playing a key role in forming a future pathway for women in the organization to follow.
Groesbeck, who has two daughters, a son and three granddaughters, loves to share stories of her pioneering years with the telephone company, along with the many experiences within her volunteer work that she happily and with enthusiasm shares with anyone who asks.
When reflecting on why she volunteers, Groesbeck says: "Volunteering offers vital help that is needed in our community. Helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference in the lives of others. I find that volunteering feeds my intellect and provides me with renewed creativity, motivation and vision."
Finally, Groesbeck adds that she has met so many of her closest friends through volunteering, noting that she is indeed blessed.
Most days and evenings, one can find Groesbeck volunteering at one of the many organizations and events taking place in our valley. Stop by and say hello.
For more information and inspiration, contact Edie Groesbeck at: edieg1031@gmail.com.
A long-time resident of the Coachella Valley, Donna Sturgeon has deep roots in this community as an entrepreneur, programs consultant, community connector and educator within a variety of industry sectors. When not writing, Sturgeon enjoys hiking, yoga, travel, fashion, music and the arts.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Why I volunteer in Greater Palm Springs: Edie Groesbeck
