At Teal Diva, volunteering is more than showing up—it’s stepping into something bigger than yourself. It’s connection. It’s purpose. It’s heart.
And for the past few years, Joe Coyazo has helped shape that experience for so many.
As he transitions from his role as Volunteer Coordinator, Joe leaves us with reflections that beautifully capture what it means to be part of this community.
A Culture Like No Other
Joe describes the volunteer culture at Teal Diva as something truly special—something you feel the moment you walk into a room.
Fast-paced. High-energy. Full of life.
But more than that—it’s joyful.
It’s the laughter at early morning race setups.
It’s the sparkle and flair at events.
It’s the hugs, the smiles, the unspoken understanding that everyone is there for something deeply meaningful.
This isn’t just volunteering.
This is belonging.
Connection Begins with Understanding
What makes a volunteer feel truly connected?
According to Joe, it starts with understanding the why.
When volunteers are given a clear picture of the mission—when they understand the realities of gynecologic and ovarian cancer—it transforms their role. They’re no longer just helping at an event… they’re becoming advocates. Educators. Supporters.
They carry the message forward.
And that matters.
Leading with Compassion
In a community rooted in survivorship and support, compassion isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Joe reminds us that many of the women and families we meet are walking (or have walked) incredibly difficult roads. As volunteers, we’re invited into those spaces with care.
That means:
- Leading with empathy
- Speaking with kindness
- Holding space for both strength and vulnerability
It also means recognizing that sometimes, the most powerful thing we can offer isn’t words—it’s presence.
The Heartbeat of Our Events
If you’ve ever been part of the Teal Diva 5K, you already know—it’s more than an event.
It’s a movement.
And it takes a village.
From early morning setup to cheering on participants, the 5K requires an incredible level of coordination, energy, and teamwork. Every volunteer plays a role in creating an experience that is both meaningful and memorable.
Because at the center of it all is a shared purpose:
To support.
To educate.
To remind every participant—they are not alone.
When Things Don’t Go as Planned
Events don’t always go perfectly—and that’s okay.
Joe shares that success isn’t about avoiding change—it’s about how you respond to it.
Flexibility. Trust. Teamwork.
Knowing who to lean on.
Knowing how to pivot.
And knowing that no matter what, the mission stays at the center.
That’s what keeps everything moving forward.
Showing Up—Every Time
One of the things Joe is most proud of?
Teal Diva has never canceled an event during his time as Volunteer Coordinator.
Even when roles were hard to fill.
Even when schedules were tight.
Even when last-minute needs arose.
Because this community shows up.
The Board. The volunteers. The supporters.
Together, they’ve ensured that survivors and those currently battling always have a place to turn—a place where hope is not just spoken, but lived.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As Joe steps into his next chapter, his gratitude is unmistakable.
“I have met some amazing people along the way. I sincerely want to thank every volunteer that I have worked with. Your time and effort do not go unnoticed. There is no way I could have done this without all your help.
To Shannon Routh, to the Teal Diva leadership, and to every volunteer who gave their time and heart—thank you.“
And to Joe—thank you for the energy, the leadership, and the love you’ve poured into this community.
Not Goodbye—Just See You Soon
Teal Diva has a way of staying with you.
It lives in the connections you’ve made.
The stories you’ve heard.
The lives you’ve touched.
And as Joe so perfectly said—
This is not goodbye… just see you at the next event.
At Teal Diva, once you’re part of the sisterhood—you always are.
