When it comes to giving back, TDS associate Jeffery Norton doesn’t look for recognition—he looks for impact.
A direct sales representative based in Appleton, Wisconsin, Jeffrey has made community service a defining part of his life. His dedication recently earned him recognition as TDS Telecom’s Q4 2025 Volunteer of the Quarter, but for Jeffery, volunteering isn’t about awards. It’s about showing up for people when it matters most.
At TDS, community involvement is encouraged through the company’s Be Good Citizens program, which provides associates with paid time to volunteer each quarter. Jeffery has taken that opportunity and turned it into something far bigger—supporting dozens of organizations and inspiring others to do the same.
Jeffery’s dedication to service started early. From volunteering through his church and the Boy Scouts to delivering meals to elderly neighbors, helping others has always been second nature. Over time, those early experiences grew into a lifelong passion.
In December 2025 alone, Jeffery estimates he supported more than 30 nonprofit organizations, championing causes ranging from suicide prevention and veteran services to humane societies, food pantries, and youth programs. His generosity doesn’t end with the holiday season. Throughout the year, Jeffery focuses on different causes each month—supporting Special Olympics in January, heart health organizations in February, the March of Dimes and women’s and infant health initiatives in March, sexual assault prevention programs in April, and many more as the year goes on.
What truly sets Jeffery apart isn’t just the number of organizations he supports, it’s his belief that giving back is better when it’s shared.
Several TDS associates have joined him ringing bells for the Salvation Army’s holiday campaign, while others have volunteered alongside him at community events like the Festival Foods Turkey Trot, which benefits local YMCAs and Boys & Girls Clubs.
“For me, it’s about showing people that even a couple of hours can make a real difference,” Jeffery said. “It doesn’t always mean giving money. Giving your time—and your heart—can truly change someone’s life, especially around the holidays when families are struggling. Being able to help really puts things in perspective.”
Before joining TDS in September 2025, Jeffery spent decades working behind the scenes in fundraising and community support. Even now, he prefers to keep the spotlight off himself.
“I normally don’t take recognition for nonprofit work,” he shared. “This is just something I believe people should do.”
Still, his impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. TDS Supervisor of Direct Sales Chris Birling says Jeffery’s generosity extends to every part of his work.
“Jeffery is truly a man of the people,” Chris said. “Whether it’s his dedication to our customers, his teammates, or his community, he always leads by example. He doesn’t just talk about making a difference—he shows up and does the work. It’s so inspiring.”
Through his selfless service and genuine compassion, Jeffery continues to make a lasting difference in the Fox Cities of Wisconsin and beyond—proving that leadership begins with heart.
