An interview with Domenic Efter, NextStep Community Champion

Domenic Efter is Vice President, Store Manager of TD Bank Ellsworth. In his leadership role, he oversees a staff of six and is directly involved in business development activities for the greater Ellsworth community. Domenic has been in the banking industry for the better part of 20 years.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME INVOLVED WITH THE ISSUE OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

Domenic was bothered by the increasing violence against women and always struggled to understand why women were treated so poorly by people who claim to be partners. He met NextStep’s former executive director at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Ellsworth at which he and his wife Arlyn were invited, an event called “Katie’s Quest.”  

Katie’s Quest was a fundraising dinner for children affected by domestic violence. The outpouring of support to help those in need, particularly children was inspiring. After attending this event Domenic and Arlyn found a way to become personally involved with NextStep.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO DO WHAT WHAT YOU DO FOR NEXTSTEP?

Domenic is thrilled to work for an organization like TD Bank which encourages their leaders to be involved in the community. This allows him to parlay his individual giving with his company’s, benefiting both the receiving organization and the community in which he and TD Bank serves.

He believes that when an organization such as NextStep requests support from the area's financial institutions, they should join together and become steadfast in their fight against domestic violence. “When we are all pitching in together, we aren’t competitors, we are supporters of our community, making a real difference.”

Domenic understands that when funds are given to NextStep, they will be better positioned to provide more resources and services in the community. NextStep provides legal help, shelter, and safety planning – all the things that fulfill their mission. “It’s so important to keep NextStep sustainable,” he said.

WHAT CAN OTHERS DO?

“Get involved and support NextStep’s mission. If you don’t have money to donate, give of yourself in other ways: Volunteer to answer phones, organize a fundraiser through an employer or a group, assist in upkeep of the residence, do whatever you can.

“Call NextStep and ask them, “What can I do to help?” so they don’t have to use their financial resources to get things done; like painting a bedroom at the shelter, putting together equipment, or building a playground.”

Domenic concluded, “When you wake up each day and just do the right thing, you’ve accomplished something. You start to forget all the good that you’ve done because you always do the right thing.” He encourages others to grow themselves – to get to a place where giving back won’t negatively impact personal needs, whether it’s time or money. “Everything comes back to you!”