Outstanding Volunteer Noreen Okarter counts among her most meaningful NYJL experiences watching members previously uncomfortable with NYJL financial reporting begin to confidently develop annual budgets and understand NYJL financial reporting. “Finance is Fun!” was a phrase coined by Noreen because of her passion for all things finance. She transformed the phrase into a NYJL chant, which was enthusiastically embraced by the NYJL’s membership when Noreen was Finance Council Head.

Before serving on the Finance Council, Noreen was a community partner liaison for the Cooking and Health Education for Families (CHEF) committee during the pandemic, finding ways to virtually engage homeless residents of Urban Pathways, one of NYJL’s largest community partners. She currently serves as Placement Committee co-chair and is on the Finance and Building Work Groups. 

Noreen credits her NYJL experiences with helping her better understand the needs of underserved communities, which led to her being a more impactful volunteer. In addition to CHEF, Noreen also served on the Artistic Journeys committee teaching art to children. The one-on-one interactions from Community Council committees gave Noreen a new perspective on homelessness and children’s education, resparking a love for the frontlines of community service that began at age four.

Noreen is also a volunteer tour guide at the Merchant’s House Museum and a Visitor Experience volunteer at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where she helps visitors navigate the museum. She is dedicated to increasing engagement, whether it’s for art, advocacy for the homeless, or women’s empowerment through finance.

“I’m so happy to give back and help New York City, a place I love and that has had a significant role in shaping me as a person,” Noreen said. “I’m a better person because of New York and the New York Junior League.”

Get to know the 2025 Outstanding Sustainers and Outstanding Volunteers.