Volunteer Spotlight: Dusti Shaffer
Everything that AMA Minnesota offers would not be possible without the amazing work of our volunteers. Often their work is done behind the scenes. To thank our volunteers and bring their efforts to light, we regularly showcase them in a Volunteer Spotlight.
Meet Dusti Shaffer!
AMA MN Volunteer Committee: Programming
Volunteer Since: June 2024
Job title: Senior Account Executive at LTK
1. Why did you decide to become a volunteer with AMA MN?
I had attended several AMA-MN events in the past that were always well-organized and informative. As a transplant, and the only representative for my company in Minnesota, I saw this as a great opportunity to build meaningful connections, gain a deeper understanding of the local business landscape, and contribute to my community.
2. What do you enjoy most about being a volunteer on your committee?
I’m a planner to my core, so I love being able to leverage my background to help create fun, educational, and impactful experiences for others. It’s rewarding to see ideas come to life and know they’re making a difference in the community.
3. Why is being a volunteer with AMA MN important to you?
I believe in the power of giving back. We all have unique experiences and skills to offer, and by volunteering, we not only contribute to the community but also gain a deeper sense of connection and perspective. It’s fulfilling to be part of something bigger than myself, and I’ve found that volunteering is also beneficial to my mental health, as it allows me to focus on positive actions and fosters a sense of belonging. Through AMA MN, I’m able to contribute to the local business community, while also learning and growing personally.
4. What’s the one thing you wish others knew about volunteering with AMA MN? What makes it unique?
AMA-MN is unique because it doesn’t fit into a simple box. We all come from different walks of life, backgrounds, and careers, which makes the experience that much more enriching. I love hearing others’ stories and learning from diverse perspectives. In my opinion, that’s what makes collaboration both interesting and enjoyable.
5. What is some of the best advice you’ve received in your career?
I’ve received a lot of great advice over the years, but one piece from a mentor has always stuck with me: Always follow quality of life, no matter the opportunity. Having worked in many competitive environments, I’ve seen firsthand how easy it is to get caught up in titles, salaries, or prestige. But at the end of the day, we work to live—not the other way around. No matter how appealing an opportunity may seem, it’s important to step back and ask: Does this truly support the life I want to live?
6. Besides volunteering, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I have a 4-year-old and a 3-month-old, so my free time mostly consists of waiting until everyone is asleep so I can binge-watch my shows and eat snacks in peace. I also love to read, listen to podcasts, and spend weeks completing a single jigsaw puzzle because… well, kids. 🙂
Interested in being a volunteer? Check out our volunteer opportunities here!
