Volunteer Spotlight: Kina Franklin

Kina Franklin has been involved with Think Big since 2019 and was instrumental in launching Career Exploration programming in Atlanta. Kina serves on both Think Big’s Atlanta Advisory Board and the Marketing Committee.  As Vice President and Senior Trust Officer at Arden Trust, Kina is a tireless volunteer, whether she’s mentoring junior associates, working with middle school students at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Atlanta, or organizing school supply drives.

What motivated you to engage with Think Big for Kids?

I was motivated to get involved because I love the mission of Think Big and helping the next generation of kids.

What’s your favorite part of being involved with Think Big for Kids?

My favorite part of Think Big is hearing and seeing the kids’ reactions at the showcases.  I love to hear the conversations amongst the kids about the different careers.

Working with middle schoolers can be a bit intimidating! Were you nervous the first time? What strategies have helped you connect with this population of kids?

I have always loved working with kids.  I was never nervous, because I feel like I can connect with them really easy. When I was in college, I was an afterschool teacher at a church daycare center.  I had kids from kindergarten to 8^thgrade in my afterschool class.  It was such a great experience to help them all!  I think this experience has really helped me connect with the kids at the Boys and Girls Clubs.

Do you have a most memorable moment from your time working with the kids at the Boys & Girls Clubs?

My most memorable moment was our end of the year pizza party in 2023.  The kids really enjoyed it and had so many great things to say about Think Big. They really opened up about how much they appreciate Think Big and having the opportunity to see different people in different careers.

What can others do to help support Think Big in the Atlanta region or beyond?

Think Big can always use more volunteers from partner companies and donations to help the program continue to excel.  If you can’t donate money, then time is just as good.  The next generation needs us!

Atlanta Advisory Board member Kina Franklin, center, and her team at Arden Trust Company organized a back-to-school supply drive for Think Big kids at the East DeKalb Boys & Girls Club.