> SOUTHERN INDIANA — It was as if I walked into the meeting, met Chris Kanemitsu and said, “I do.” For more than a year, we ran in the same nonprofit circles and easily became friends. I could depend that Chris would welcome me with a big smile at every meeting or gathering.

Nominated by several individuals, Chris Kanemitsu is undoubtedly an Extra Miler for Southern Indiana.

Because he often sees his volunteer friends more than his wife, Vickie, Chris good-naturedly refers to many of his female colleagues as his “work-wives,” joking that his female friends often tell him what to do, how to do it, and when. Vickie seems resolved to the fact that her Extra Miler husband is a friend to all and gladly shares his positive personality and natural sense of humor.

Chris is involved with multiple nonprofits within the community and regularly receives calls to add more. So much so that when I alluded to his Extra Miler nomination by asking for volunteer information, his humorous response was, “Why, do you want to add another rock to my pocket?” I still laugh each time I think of his reaction.

Chris always seems flexible to do whatever he is called upon to do and much of his charm is derived from his easygoing nature. There is no doubt in my mind that Chris would have stepped up to the plate if my call had been for him to participate in yet another community-service activity.

Chris has a passion for keeping our environment clean. He co-owns a small business tasked with saving local businesses money through energy saving products and he often partners with other “green” employers. Chris also works a part time job as a maintenance programmer with a regional airline. As busy as he is with multiple work projects, Chris’ philanthropy work doesn’t take a back seat.

Chris volunteers with the Southern Indiana Community Foundation, specifically on their scholarship committee. Melissa Weissinger, program officer for the foundation, explained that Chris is a dependable and essential volunteer for their organization.

She explained, “Chris truly cares about Southern Indiana and the people who live and work here.” She adds, “… he is a joyous spirit who always has a smile on his face and a kind word.”

Dani Cummins, executive director for The Falls of the Ohio Foundation Inc., was not at a loss for words when she heard about Chris’ Extra Miler nomination. She said, “Chris is on our board and serves as an ambassador.”

When asked what Chris’ involvement in the Falls means to the organization, Dani quickly responded, “Chris is a true partner of the Falls, giving of his time, talent and treasure. He is key to getting our message of environmental stewardship and education out to the corporate world, general public, and schools.” She adds, “Chris is a person who cares about the environment, education, conservation and preservation.”

Dawn Bennett, vice president of business services at One Southern Indiana nominated Chris because of his volunteer efforts to ensure sustained economic growth within our community.

Dawn stated, “Chris has been such a long-term dedicated volunteer for our organization that we have joked about giving him his own office.” She added, “He exhibits the type of personality that makes others want to join in on the work just to be in his company and 1si benefits significantly from his involvement.”

Chris is a person true to his word. If he offers to help, the organization, conference or activity coordinators know they are going to have full participation. Every one of the nonprofit organizations contacted commented on Chris’ positive and outgoing personality. People simply want to be by his side to catch his spirit.

Melissa Weissinger also wanted readers to know how important it is for nonprofit organizations to be able to depend on their volunteers. Nonprofit agencies count on volunteers to assist in accomplishing their goals within the community. Chris is one of those dependable volunteers.

Melissa recalled, “When Chris offers his time, we know he will dedicate the necessary time and energy to ensure the task is completed in a professional manner.”

The Community Foundation had a last-minute need for a volunteer recently and called Chris to serve. He stepped in without hesitation. Later, Melissa discovered it was Chris’ birthday and he had delayed a planned celebration with his family in order to help.

At the rate Chris is going, he will need to buy pants with extra large pockets to hold all the rocks he keeps accumulating. However, his spirit is far too strong to ever let them weigh him down.

Thank you Chris Kanemitsu, not only for answering the call to help our community become a better place to live and work, but also because of the manner in which you respond so positively, allowing anyone near you to automatically catch your giving and caring spirit. You are a true Extra Miler.

Carol A. Dawson is a resident of Jeffersonville and owner of EEO GUIDANCE, Inc. If you have seen or been a part of an act of kindness or know an EXTRA MILER, please contact her. To submit an Extra Miler, a story, or act of kindness, contact Carol via e-mail: Cdawson@eeoguidance.com, mail: THE EXTRA MILERS, The Evening News, 221 Spring St., Jeffersonville, IN 47130-3340.