Thank you, volunteers!
From musicians and staff at the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, "Thank you for making our centennial season one to remember!”
Volunteer Spotlight – Chita McKinney
By Anita Hawkins
Chita loves the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and the Rochester Philharmonic League. She started her association with the RPO as a patron and enjoyed coming to the concerts with her husband, Bob. At one point, Bob needed help with getting into the theater. That's when Chita found out about the Gibbs Street Assistants (the volunteers who offer assistance to patrons as they enter the building and get to their seats). This help allowed Chita to drop Bob off, park the car, and meet up with him inside the theater.
For the past 11 years, Chita has been one of the Gibbs Street Assistants. She enjoys helping people because she knows personally how valuable this service is. As a Gibbs Street Assistant, she has made some good friendships over the years.
One day, a volunteer friend called her and said they would like her to consider being an RPL member and serve on the Board. Of course, she said “yes.” In addition to her Gibbs St. gig, she enjoys volunteering at the Children's Concerts. She loves seeing the children coming into the theater and being introduced to music that is different from what they hear day to day. Chita also volunteers for the YAA Competition. You can find her doing many jobs e.g. being an escort, monitoring the doors, and being a cheerful greeter. The Rochester Philharmonic League and Board can count on Chita to be there for whatever is needed.
During my interview with Chita, I learned many interesting things about what she does when not at the Eastman Theatre. She is from Illinois and is a graduate of Valparaiso University, where she majored in accounting. As a retired accountant, she had many volunteer jobs with different organizations as well as helping people with their taxes.
Chita is a Birder and a member of the Braddock Bay Observatory. She has seen 575 different species of North American birds. One of her favorites is the Carolina Wren. It makes a variety of sounds.
Chita loves to travel. Chita has been to all 50 states and most European countries. Her most recent trip was in April. She sailed on the Rhine River. Her next adventure will be on the Danube in April 2025. For 25 years, she has attended sessions at the Chautauqua Institute. There she engages in an “eclectic mix” of learning.
Chita has 3 children, 9 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.
We are fortunate and honored to have Chita McKinney as a member of the Rochester Philharmonic League Governance Board and a Gibbs Street Assistant. Next time you're at a concert, look for Chita and introduce yourself. She is the reason someone smiles!
End-of-Season Celebrations!
