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Meet Your Neighbor: Mike Yoder
By Callie Thomas
Resident Mike Yoder has spent decades developing computer software, products and writing programs that are geared toward the integration of computers and evolving technology. While it may seem that Mike is in tune with non-human methodology on a daily basis, Yoder is intent on reaching out and lending a human hand to seniors in need throughout our community.
The sixteen year resident started his career as a software developer consultant with his brother Frank in Virginia in the late 1980s, creating their company, Advanced Information Systems, and relocating it to Las Vegas in 1995. “We built a full-service IT consulting and software development firm,” says Yoder. “As small businessmen, we quickly became involved in the local business community and eventually in community organizations.”
With a compassionate heart as well as an expertise for detail and organization, it was a natural fit for Mike when he had the opportunity to apply those attributes as a board member of the Helping Hands of Vegas Valley organization. “When the opportunity to join the board came up a few years back, I was honored to participate,” Yoder said. “Helping Hands was the first board I’d ever served on.”
Mike serves as the Vice President on the Board of Trustees for Helping Hands and also donates his time and services to take care of all the technical support needed by the organization. The group is a community service organization that provides essential services for seniors age 60 and over in the Las Vegas valley. “We provide three main services: a pantry to supplement groceries for low-income seniors; transportation for seniors who cannot get to doctor’s appointments, grocery stores, complete errands, etc.; and respite care vouchers to allow care givers a much-needed break so that they may return refreshed and continue to provide the care for loved ones over longer periods of time,” Mike said.
As a board member, Mike is part of a team of trustees that advises, governs, oversees policy and direction as well as assists with the leadership and promotion of Helping Hands of Vegas Valley in order to support the core mission and needs of its recipients. “I’ve seen positive experiences reflected in the faces of appreciative seniors over the years in each of these programs,” he said. This month the group will hold its 15th Annual Cars, Stars and Guitars event, with this year’s festivities to be held in conjunction with the Motorhead Festival Poker Run. The event is a spectacular display of exotic cars, hotrods, classics, trucks, bikes, race cars, boats and more. Proceeds of the event benefit the Helping Hands organization.
Yoder also lends his time and support as a board member for Technology Business Alliance of Nevada (TBAN) which provides benefits for technology companies in the valley. It provides the optimum arena for Mike to give other small tech businesses a leg up. The group fosters high-tech growth in the state and is dedicated to assisting technology start-ups in finding the talent, customers and financing needed to succeed. “Giving back gives me a sense of being a contributing member of the community,” says Yoder.
The growth of both the Helping Hands and TBAN organizations are key aspirations Mike has for the future. Mike Yoder’s positive attitude and strong work ethic are just part of the reason he has been successful in business and in helping others throughout the community. He enjoys spending time with his wife Diann and their four children in their backyard oasis with friends and family, as well as making a difference in the community. “Giving back allows me to become more familiar with individuals I normally would not have an opportunity to meet. Hopefully, in some small way, I can have a positive impact on their lives.” For information on the Cars, Stars and Guitars event, visit www.carsstarsguitars.com.
