Volunteering During COVID-19

Corporate volunteerism is an effective way for companies and their employees to make an impact in the community. Just ask Stephanie Polzella, Assistant Vice President of Claims Strategy and Optimization at The Hartford.

“I am action-oriented and enjoy partnering with others to make impactful change,” said Polzella. “It is this passion to influence positive change that drew me to join the United Way Women United Leadership Council in 2018.”

Over the years, Polzella joined her teammates from The Hartford in various United Way volunteer projects and other events; in particular, supporting Habitat for Humanity and Foodshare. In 2016, she served as The Hartford’s Claims Lead Ambassador for United Way’s workplace giving campaign; an effort with her co-workers that helped raise over $1.4 million in employee giving.

When the COVID-19 crisis hit our community, Polzella was inspired to take action and volunteered through United Way to construct face shields at New Britain High School for the faculty, staff and students.

“Simply put, I wanted to do my small part in helping others to stay as safe as possible, said Polzella. “I don’t sew, and thought this was a fantastic way to contribute. Additionally, I tend to enjoy activities where I am able to produce a tangible result, in this instance a face shield!”

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