14 Dec A Conversation With Pamela Corradi
A Conversation With:
Pamela Corradi
Pamcoco Financial Services
Owner
How long have you been volunteering in the community?
I began volunteering at college with my sorority. We served deaf individuals at a local center. I volunteered locally when I became a young wife and mother in local politics. During those early years, I belonged to the Cabrini Literary Guild where our group modeled for no fee at charity events, lessening the sponsor’s expenses.
When I first opened my business, I joined professional groups as well as the Burbank Chamber of Commerce, where in 1989, I became the second woman chair. I served on the BTAC, Red Cross, YMCA Boards and was the Founding Chair of the Woodbury College Library Associates. Providence St. Joseph Medical Center (1989 – 2013) and Providence High School 1990 – current) are two of my favorite groups. I was the second female to join Burbank Noon Kiwanis in 1989, became President in 1996, and Lt. Governor in 2001. I joined the United Chambers of Commerce in 1990 and was Chair in 2005-2006. During that year, I was on the founding Board of Biz Fed. In 1996, I became a member of The Valley Economic Alliance.
How long have you been volunteering for The Valley Economic Alliance?
I joined The Valley Economic Alliance in 1996 serving on the Stronger Communities initiative and the Workforce Task force for many years. During my years as Chair of the UCC we worked closely to encourage small businesses in the Valley. I have served on the Board of Governors for many years and the Executive Board since my year as Chair of the UCC.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born at the Physicians and Surgeons Hospital in 1943; the hospital was torn down the next year. I lived in Burbank until my marriage when I moved to Glendale for 2 years. I attended Burbank schools and the University of Southern California, majoring in physical therapy, so it was natural that I opened a tax practice after my two wonderful sons started school in 1971. My practice served 50 write-up clients, bookkeeping monthly, and preparing 500 tax returns annually.
In 1977 I remarried and moved to Kingsburg, CA. I sold insurance and worked at a packing shed/farming firm as the controller.
Following that short-lived marriage, I returned to Burbank and opened my second tax practice, which I sold in 1993. During the next few years, I worked in the mass transit industry, studying and marketing the ‘new’ manner of travel in the City.
By 1996 I returned to the financial world delving into financial planning; counseling clients for their retirement and investments.
In 2005 I began planning a development. By 2007 I was building a 43-unit condominium project in Burbank. However, 2009 and 2010 were not good years. Although I completed the project, it was not profitable.
I volunteer one day a week at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School in Burbank and one at the Burbank Chamber of Commerce. I also give time to the UCC, TVEA and Providence High School.
For more information visit my LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pam-corradi-ab263899
What is one of your Passion Projects that you are working on?
My passion project is introducing students to business so they understand how to prepare for the business world. Young adults need to graduate from school, whether it be High School or an Advanced Degree, with skills for success. It is important for us in the Valley to educate our children, encouraging them to remain in the Valley and become assets to small and large businesses.
Why do you continue to be a member of The Valley Economic Alliance?
Over the years, I have seen The Alliance change and grow, but the basic mission has not changed. Supporting small and large business is very important and is the hope for the future. While supporting business, The Alliance also partners with many programs for non-profit organizations and schools. That augments my passion for marrying students and business for a brighter economic future for all!