Episode 20: Behind the Impact: VyStar Volunteers of the Year

Behind the Impact: VyStar Volunteers of the Year

Featured Guests

Kemal Gasper

VP of Community Engagement, VyStar Credit Union

Kemal Gasper serves as Vice President of Community Engagement at VyStar Credit Union. Kemal’s dedication to serving the community goes far beyond his role at VyStar. He believes in investing in people, developing authentic connections, building a strong culture, being innovative and thinking strategically to achieve the best outcomes for the community. His dedication has been recognized by the Jacksonville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list in 2017, Buzz Magazine's Top 30 Under 30 and the Florida Black Expo Top 20 Under 40 in 2016. Kemal currently serves on the Board of Directors of Leadership Jacksonville, Changing Homelessness, KingSoutel CRA Advisory Board and The JAX Chamber Hightower Fellowship.

Meredith Anido

Compliance Analyst, VyStar Credit Union

Meredith Anido is a Compliance Analyst at VyStar Credit Union and a dedicated community leader known for her passion for service and unwavering commitment to giving back. She brings strong organizational skills, a collaborative spirit, and a positive, solutions-driven mindset to every team and initiative she supports. In her professional role, Meredith is recognized for her precision, accountability, and commitment to continuous improvement. Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, she serves as Chair of LVMG, where she helps guide strategic initiatives with integrity and purpose. Meredith is deeply invested in creating meaningful experiences for others, both within her organization and in the broader community. A proud advocate for military families, she is committed to fostering connection, encouragement, and opportunity wherever she can. She also enjoys coaching her son’s 6U T-ball team and supporting families in her community, reflecting a lifelong dedication to leadership, reliability, and making a lasting, positive impact in the lives of others.

Joseph Sellix

Protective Services Manager, VyStar Credit Union

Joseph Sellix is a Protective Services Manager for VyStar Credit Union, where he focuses on safeguarding people, facilities, and operations in a fast-paced corporate environment. Known for his steady leadership and practical approach, he is committed to creating safe, secure spaces while supporting those around him. Outside of work, Joseph is a proud father of two and is driven by a desire to lead by example. He enjoys helping others and brings a sense of humor to everyday moments. In his free time, he can often be found on a nightly ruck with the family’s golden retriever, using the time to reset and stay grounded.

Highlights

  • Volunteerism is core to VyStar’s culture. VyStar encourages every employee to volunteer at least eight hours annually, supported by paid volunteer time, reinforcing service as a shared organizational value.

  • Impact goes beyond participation to transformation. With a record‑breaking 45,000 volunteer hours, VyStar volunteers aren’t just showing up—they’re helping nonprofits scale programs and expand their reach.

  • Recognition reflects real community outcomes. The Volunteer of the Year Awards honor employees and nonprofit partners whose efforts create measurable, meaningful impact in the communities VyStar serves.

  • Personal growth often sparks community impact. Both honorees described how volunteering helped them grow personally—building confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper sense of purpose.

  • Great volunteers act as force multipliers. Standout volunteers don’t just donate time; they mobilize others, strengthen nonprofit operations, and help create sustainable programs.

  • Finding the right fit matters. Choosing volunteer opportunities that align with personal availability and interests helps sustain long‑term commitment and fulfillment.

  • Challenges are part of the journey—and the reward. Whether physical, emotional, or social, volunteering pushes people outside their comfort zones, fostering resilience and growth.

  • Volunteer leaders inspire others. As ambassadors, the honorees serve as visible examples of VyStar’s values, encouraging colleagues, partners, and the broader community to get involved.

  • Service creates a ripple effect. The stories shared highlight how individual acts of service can uplift nonprofits, strengthen communities, and inspire others to take action.

  • The first step is the most important. The episode closes with a simple call to action: start somewhere, get involved, and discover the joy and impact of giving back. 

Download the audio version of this episode on Buzzsprout.

The content provided in this podcast consists of the opinions and ideas of the creators alone and should be used for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice, and are not meant to replace such advice. VyStar Credit Union is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from decisions you make based on the information provided. The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the guest and not VyStar Credit Union or its management.