Businessman advocate for community

By KARI INGERSOLL
Observer-Dispatch

Al Dorantes sums up the reasons for his community involvement with a question he asks himself every day: If those who are able to help choose not to, who will do it?
"People out there could be doing something if they really wanted to," he said. "But a lot of people just do the minimum to get by. If we all did the minimum, where would we be?"

In addition to running two creative enterprises - a comic publishing company and sign design business - Dorantes serves as vice president of Country Marketing Ltd., an international marketing and mailing firm based in Ilion. He also is a principal in Eastern Marketing Network, a growing inbound telemarketing company based in Ilion.

Dorantes admits time is hard to come by some days, but that hasn't stopped him from donating whatever free time he has to such organizations as the Utica Zoo, Valley Health Services, the World War II Memorial Committee, American Red Cross and just about anyone else who needs his help.

"I just take a deep breath and think 'Where am I going to get the hours to do this?'" he said with a chuckle. "I could try to say no, but I worry who they are going to get to help."

It is that combination of a strong work ethic and dedication to the community that led local lawyer John Brennan to nominate the Herkimer native for the Accent on Excellence honor.

"His focus and drive are what make him a success," Brennan wrote in his nomination letter. "His heart is what drives him and motivates those around him."

After working with Dorantes on several projects in the past year, Brennan said he's learned you can always depend on Dorantes to put his best foot forward, no matter the task.

"He's the kind of person who devotes his time and effort to improving the lives of those in the community," Brennan said. "And he does it all just because he wants to - not for any other reason."

Whether it is printing tickets for private benefits or raising money to buy food for animals at the zoo, Dorantes tried to argue he's not doing anything extraordinary, but rather something that is second nature to him and should be second nature to everyone.

"I don't do any of these things to get recognized," he said. "I'm sure there are people who do it for that reason, but not me. I just do it because I can."

With his unassuming demeanor and passion for whatever cause he is involved with, Utica Zoo Interim Executive Director Beth Irons said Dorantes has become an invaluable asset in his short tenure on the Utica Zoo Board of Directors.

"He's not just there to fill a chair," Irons said. "He has taken on the responsibility of being an active board member very seriously and never hesitates to offer his services or time."

Dorantes first became involved with the zoo in November 2004, during its annual donor campaign, Irons said. From sharing his business expertise and skills in mass marketing to designing new fundraising concepts, Dorantes' support is unwavering, despite his often busy schedule, Irons said.

"Like most of our board members, he is actively involved in other nonprofit efforts, but if there is a need he can help with, he is there," she said.

As the World War II Memorial Trip committee chairman, local lawyer George Aney is very thankful for Dorantes' attitude and willingness to help.

"Al is an extremely competent and capable man. He works hard at his job, but still finds time to do more," Aney said. "If we needed something in 12 hours, we'd get it 10 hours -- that's just how he is."

Dorantes said he is ready to take on his newest challenge: Coaching Pop Warner football.

"Honestly, the kids learn more about life skills than football at this level," he said. "I still think about what my coach taught me just about every day. Hopefully someday, when these kids are 30, they'll remember what their coach said. Then maybe it will all make sense to them."