This October, we’re proud to shine the spotlight on Jeff Kish! In about a year with ArtsQuest, Jeff has already contributed nearly 400 volunteer hours, quickly becoming a familiar face and an invaluable part of our team. His professionalism, enthusiasm, and readiness to lend a hand wherever needed are evident across every event and activity we host, from Levitt shows, Musikfest Café ushering, and comedy shows! Jeff has also been assisting our operations team nearly every day with setting up for our major events such as Musikfest and Oktoberfest. Please join us in celebrating Jeff and thanking him for his remarkable dedication to ArtsQuest!
Question 1: What first inspired you to start volunteering with ArtsQuest?
After retiring late last year, I was looking for volunteer opportunities that involved things I enjoy, and music was definitely one of them. ArtsQuest felt like a natural fit because of the variety and quality of its events, and because I’ve always enjoyed the experiences it provides for the community. Having attended Musikfest, concerts, and other events over the years, one thing that has always stood out to me is the friendliness and enthusiasm of the ArtsQuest volunteers. They genuinely seem to enjoy being part of the events and creating a great experience for everyone. That was something I wanted to be part of.
Since getting involved, I’ve also really enjoyed the people I’ve had the opportunity to work with. The Operations team has been great to work with, and I’ve enjoyed helping with event setup and teardown. Cory, Michael, and Parker from the Volunteer Support team, along with the many other volunteers, have also very welcoming and helpful. Their guidance has made getting involved easy and enjoyable and has reinforced that I made the right choice in volunteering with ArtsQuest.
Question 2: How do you like to spend your time when you aren’t volunteering? What are your favorite hobbies?
When I’m not volunteering, I like to stay active—golfing, walking, running, biking, and getting in some exercise. We have a home in Myrtle Beach, so we try to spend as much time there as we can. I started playing guitar many years ago and have collected a few over the years, so I still enjoy picking one up and playing when I have the time. I’m also a big wine enthusiast and have a couple of wine certifications, so visiting wineries is something I really enjoy whenever I get the chance.
Question 3: If money were no object, which artist (past or present) would be your dream Musikfest headliner for the Wind Creek Steel Stage?
If money were truly no object, there are two bands that I would like to see at Musikfest: Pearl Jam and Green Day. Seeing either of them headline the Wind Creek Steel Stage would be an incredible experience. I’m sure both would sell out quickly!
