Nine years into his career, Nicholas Kaczmarek knows he still has a lot to learn. But he also recognizes he has a role to play in the community and he’s seized upon opportunities where he can make a difference while helping others get involved, too.
He’s “all in” as co-chairman of Next Gen United, an affinity group at the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County for professionals in their 20s and 30s. His involvement over the past four years has helped to rejuvenate the organization as it evolved through the pandemic, growing membership to more than 600.
“Our mission is to connect young professionals with the rising nonprofits in our area, those organizations who are a little more green and grassroots who need the attention of young, creative thinkers to help them grow and sustain their missions,” he said.
And that’s in his free time. Kaczmarek works as a senior designer on the marketing team at the Children’s Hospital of Buffalo Foundation, where he does everything from designing event invites to working on email marketing and television advertising spots for Kaleida Health.
With about 75-100 active members, Next Gen United sponsors events and volunteer opportunities at organizations ranging from the Matt Urban Hope Life Center to the Tool Library. It also runs Pitch 10, a 43North-style competition for nonprofits.
“Now more and more, we see a generation who wants a direct connection. They want to know who they’re doing work for and want to know what that work is about,” Kaczmarek said. “We’re working to impact some of Buffalo’s most marginalized, vulnerable populations. It’s so exciting to see, especially after the hibernation of the pandemic.”
Rema Hanash, director of resource development at United Way, said he brings energy and enthusiasm and a positive outlook about the next generation.
“He brings a great deal of skill – and spirit – to everything he does,” she said. “He inspires our work and isn’t afraid to push us beyond our comfort zone.”
An Orchard Park native, Kaczmarek studied graphic design at Daemen University, focusing on digital creation with a fine arts degree. Before joining the foundation two years ago, his career included stints with Jericho Road Community Health Center, Fisher Price and the now-defunct Bak USA.
“My start – before coming back full circle back to cause marketing — was working with Jericho Road Community Health Center,” he said. “Being part of a bigger story, making a bigger community impact, that was instilled in me growing up and even into young adulthood. That’s why I was thrilled when I got this opportunity, that my passion could turn into a career and then the career would be making a difference in people’s lives.”
Day job: Children’s Hospital Foundation of Buffalo
Community: United Way of Buffalo & Erie County
Self-description: Centric, colorful
What keeps you up at night: “Is my work making a difference? Is my impact measurable? Am I walking the walk and talking the talk?”
Who’s your hero/mentor: These past two years, Andrew Bennett (VP of the foundation) has become a person I admire and look up to.
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