WE ARE WOMEN UNITED.
SPOTLIGHT: DORIS MINK.
Tell us about yourself.
I started work almost immediately after high school and I’ve been at Gulf Power for over 46 years. I finally received my AA from Pensacola Junior College in Business in 1988. I have been married to Terry Mink for 42 years and we have 3 amazing children and 3 wonderful granddaughters. I have been a runner off and on over the years, but really got back into it in 2013 and have now run 17 Half Marathons. My goal is 20 -- for me, it is not about speed, it’s about finishing. My next opportunity will be retirement later this Spring and I’m so excited to travel, go boating, biking, and just do whatever I want, maybe even really learn how to play golf!
When and how did you first become involved with United Way?
I began by giving to United Way in August of 1971. Since that time, I have worked with the United Way staff over the years in several different capacities: Gulf Power Campaign Coordinator; United Way Campaign Committee; United Way Air Plane Pull Committee for several years; and of course, a Day of Caring Volunteer.
What do you love most about United Way?
United Way gives to those that are in need, they don’t limit who they give to – young, old, physically and or mentally challenged, etc. The requirement is simple, if someone is in need, United Way tries to find a way to give a helping hand.
What is your favorite memory or event with Women United?
My favorite event to date was assisting with a party for the children of the Head Start Gibson Center on Cervantes Street.
What is the best advice you can offer to young women and men as they start their careers?
Focus on your job, but always strive to put family first even when it is hard, and somewhere in your career make time to get involved. If you’re just starting a family, it may be a little difficult to get involved right now, but always keep that avenue open. Someone told me one time, “it is okay to say no now, your time will come to volunteer.” I have never forgotten that and I believe that it is pushing me during this part of my life to get back involved.
What accomplishment are you most proud of? Or What is your greatest achievement and how has it shaped you?
I have worked at Gulf Power for many years and I’ve been blessed to have a variety of jobs and amazing people to work for and with. I am proud that when opportunities or challenges came my way, I never said no and I never gave up, and that attitude has served me well over my career.
What aspect of your work are you most passionate about?
Right now, I have the perfect job which is to assist our local communities in their efforts to grow and provide a resilient regional economy so that all our friends and neighbors have an opportunity to grow and prosper.
What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Go on a cruise. It is the most relaxing experience ever!
If you could trade places with any other person for a week, famous or not, living or dead, real or fictional, with whom would it be and why?
To be honest, I really don’t want to change places with anyone else. My life isn’t perfect, but I don’t think anyone else’s life is either, so I’ll just keep what I have.