They say couples who volunteer together grow together, and that's certainly true for Adam and Shilah Tate. Adam, an employee at BayCoast Bank, and Shilah, an employee at Citizens Bank, share more than careers in community-minded organizations - they share a passion for giving back through United Way of Greater New Bedford.
For nearly a decade, Adam has been a dedicated United Way of Greater New Bedford volunteer. His journey began at our annual Clambake, where he first experienced the power of bringing people together to support the community. What started as a single volunteer opportunity soon evolved into a long-term commitment to giving back. 
Over the years, Adam expanded his involvement through Hunger Heroes food packaging events, Mobile Markets, and eventually as a community grant reviewer. Along the way, he often shared stories with his wife, Shilah, about the people he met, the organizations he learned about, and the impact volunteers make every day.
For years, Adam treated volunteering with United Way like his own special hobby. Shilah heard all about the events, the people, and the impact - but it wasn't until several years later that he finally agreed to let her join the team. Fortunately for all of us, she said yes.
What began as an invitation to volunteer quickly became a shared passion. Together, Adam and Shilah started serving at Hunger Heroes events, helping distribute food through Mobile Markets, and learning more about the challenges and opportunities facing local families across the SouthCoast.
As their involvement grew, so did their commitment. Today, both Adam and Shilah serve as grant reviewers, helping evaluate funding applications from local nonprofits and community groups. Their volunteer service allows them to contribute their professional expertise while helping direct resources to programs that create meaningful change in the community.
Volunteering together has become more than just community service - it's an opportunity to spend quality time together while making a difference. Whether they're packaging meals, assisting families at a Mobile Market, or reviewing grant proposals, they know they are helping strengthen the community they both care deeply about.
Adam and Shilah's story is a wonderful reminder that volunteerism can be contagious. One person's commitment to service can inspire another, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond a single event or volunteer shift.
We are grateful for Adam's many years of dedication and for the enthusiasm and leadership that both he and Shilah bring to United Way. Together, they demonstrate that some of the best partnerships aren't just found at home or at work - they're found while serving others.
Thank you, Adam and Shilah, for showing us that when it comes to making a difference, you're truly better together.