Mark Kramer

Honoree: Mark Kramer

Honored by: UnitedHealthcare

Cause Area: Healthcare

It was a hectic 2015 for Mark Kramer ― a year when he went way above and beyond when it comes to volunteer service. Mark is a systems analyst for UnitedHealth Group’s Optum in Cypress who over the years has volunteered here and there for various events. But it was a breakout effort for him last year when he filled a lot of his weekends and other free time by volunteering for a diversity of community organizations and charity groups across Orange County and beyond. Diversity may not be the right word, but it’s clear that he dedicated himself ― with deeply personal passion ― to helping an assortment of causes and campaigns. He was involved or participated in walks, runs, bicycle treks, fundraisers and other donation activities, including some of those sponsored by UnitedHeathcare. Here’s a partial lineup of the groups and events that he supported: Surf City Marathon, Long Beach AIDS Walk, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Ride 2 Recovery California Challenge and the American Diabetes Association. And then he finished off the year by helping with gift baskets and backpacks for the needy during the holidays. “I just love giving my time for helping out,” says Mark, a resident of Garden Grove. “I’m doing it for causes I care about ― like Ride 2 Recovery to help injured veterans. And because of people who I’ve encountered who have diseases or conditions.” One special challenge that he succeeded in was sharing his enthusiasm with dozens of co-workers and others and motivating them into volunteering. He does cafeteria presentations at work and gives speeches at service clubs that carry a positive message of volunteerism. People have described his approach to them in simple but powerful terms: he gets them absolutely excited about helping others. Others at UnitedHealthcare wholeheartedly agree that he is inspirational. “Mark truly expanded his commitment and had an MVP year when it comes to volunteering and inspiring fellow employees to follow his lead,” states Alex Uhm, chief operating officer for UnitedHealthcare of California, and 2015 co-chair of the organization’s California Social Responsibility Committee. “And I bet he’ll l have another successful campaign this year.” Mark is already planning a series of volunteer activities in the coming months, including church and gay pride events. He promises to again dedicate much of his spare moments with service. “The time that I give fulfills my soul,” he says. “I am able to help out. And not only am I helping other people, I’m helping myself, too.” It’s clear that Mark has proven himself when it comes to stepping forward to aid others. He has fully evolved into carrying out UnitedHealth Group’s mission of helping people live healthier lives and embodying the company’s spirit of volunteerism.