James Atchison joined the SCAN Board in 2018 and quickly became an engaged member. This year he is stepping into the role of Board Treasurer and will lead the SCAN Board Finance Committee. We look forward to having his expertise and passion for SCAN’s mission as part of the Board leadership team this year!
How did you first get involved with SCAN?
My company, KPMG, has been a long-time supporter of SCAN. I had an opportunity to participate in activities like the Santa Shop holiday program with KPMG, and started to learn more about the organization through my colleague Casey Bartok. I was able to attend some of the annual events like the Board Breakfast, the Progressive Dinner, and other fund-raising events, which eventually turned into a position on the Board and the Finance Committee.
What has your life/work experience been that brought you to SCAN?
I have four children of my own (ages 10, 8, 3, and 1) and previously served on the board of Grace Covenant Child Development Center. I am passionate about my kids and the organizations that they are involved with. As I started learning more about SCAN and its mission, it became apparent to me that the work that they do every day to help children and families in our community to prevent and overcome trauma was so important and it was important to me to do what I can to contribute to that mission.
What inspires you to stay involved with SCAN?
Once I got involved with SCAN it was easy to be motivated to stay involved. The mission is so
compelling, and the leadership of the organization is so passionate and organized that I know we are making a difference. As board members, we get to hear from the leaders of SCAN’s various programs throughout the year, and we also get to hear from some of the families that SCAN has been able to help. Hearing those stories, it is easy to see the difference that we are making in the community.
What are any challenges you have faced in your work with SCAN?
I think it has been a challenging past year for a lot of people, and for SCAN it has been no different. It has been interesting working with SCAN as we have navigated the uncertainty of COVID. In my role on the finance committee, that meant helping navigating stimulus packages and also trying to pitch in with our fundraising events in an unusual year. I have to say, I am so impressed by the way the organization has adapted to this past year to continue moving the mission forward.
Do you have any goals or hopes for the next year?
I hope that life will be more normal next year. The SCAN team has done an incredible job continuing SCAN’s mission through COVID times, but I’m looking forward to the time when SCAN can more fully engage with its clients in the community, when we can meet with each other in person for the events that support SCAN and the community.
Are you involved with any other community organizations, hobbies, or activities?
I am currently the Treasurer for the Pinchbeck Elementary School PTA and I enjoyed being the assistant coach of the Tuckahoe YMCA cross country team this past season. In my spare time, I like to run and plan on running the Richmond Marathon in the fall.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
I love traveling and languages and was fortunate enough to live in Munich, Germany for three years. I still like to wear my Lederhosen at least once a year for a neighborhood Oktoberfest celebration!
