As Treasure House grows and gets closer to becoming a reality, we want to take time to highlight the people behind the movement. Each month, we will feature a community member that is giving of his/her time and treasures to build the first residence for young adults with intellectual disabilities in the Valley.
August’s “Key” Person
Name:
Mark Stebbings
Title, Company or current Role in Life?
Executive Vice President at National Bank of Arizona
Are you a native Arizonian?
No. I was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan but moved to Arizona when I was 4 years old.
Who is a public figure that has influenced your life, and how?
Anyone who lives a life of humility. I preach that to my kids constantly; always be humble. Unfortunately, this trait isn’t always reflected in our public figures these days.
Have you thought about learning something new, or taking lessons, and why?
I recently received my SCUBA certification. It was something I’ve always wanted to do but never pursued until recently. My wife and I received our certification before celebrating an anniversary trip to Grand Cayman.
What are a couple things on your bucket list, still to do?
Travel to Europe. My wife and I have never been and it’s something I would really like to do. I’d also like to be good enough at golf to play a respectable round at Pebble Beach. That may take some time! My 14 year old son is now taking up the game so maybe one day we could play a round there together.
What is your most favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon?
I go out on our boat as much as possible. It’s a favorite of mine as well as my wife and kids. It’s something we can do as a family and the Phoenix area has some great lakes of which our favorite is Canyon Lake. If we aren’t on the lake I like to spend my Sunday’s at home, decompressing and preferably watching a football game!
What daily or weekly activity is non-negotiable?
Weekly date nights with my wife. We make it a point to have dinner out usually every Thursday night. It’s time for just the two of us to catch up and enjoy each other’s company without interruption. Making a priority to have some time with just the two of us has helped us tremendously in our 20 years of marriage. It’s on the calendar every week.
What was your first job as a young adult? Do you remember how you got that job?
My first job was in the restaurant business, working at Tony Roma’s restaurant in Mesa, AZ. I started as a busboy working to earn money for my first car. I got the job one day riding my bike by the restaurant. They were hiring so I inquired. I was hired that day. It was a good job at the time, tips were good and it was a fun environment to work in.
What advice do you have for a younger you?
For a younger me my advice would be not to sweat the small stuff. I heard that all the time and never really followed it until I got older.
What/Who attracted you to get involved with Treasure House?
Jeff Thompson who is a fellow board member. Jeff and I were talking one day and he told me all about Treasure House. It sounded like a great idea to help those in the community with disabilities and I wanted to find a way to help.
Why are you supporting Treasure House?
Kurt and Brenda’s vision and determination is inspiring. Treasure House will provide an environment for those with disabilities to gain some independence that will lead to them becoming active members of our community.
Once the first Treasure House is built in the Valley, what do you see in its future?
Long-term success and higher demand. Word is getting around, Treasure House will be a great addition to our community.