When Tom Harris retired after 53 years in the workforce, he wasn’t looking for a way to stay busy. He was looking for a way to share something he loved.
A lifelong writer and reader, Tom spent much of his career working with words. Some of his favorite memories, however, came from reading to his daughters each night before bed. “It was invariably the best part of my day,” Tom says.
When Tom became connected with SOAR365, he wondered if that same love of reading could make a difference for others. Seven months later, his idea has grown into a weekly tradition at SOAR365’s Saunders location.
Each week, about 20-25 Adult Day Support participants gather for “Mr. Tom’s Reading Club,” where they spend an hour exploring young adult books together. The group has already traveled down the Yellow Brick Road with The Wizard of Oz, shared their love of dogs through Because of Winn-Dixie, and explored pioneer life with Little House on the Prairie. The books are chosen to spark conversation for a variety of interests.
“One of the things we believe at SOAR365 is that people with disabilities deserve a life filled with opportunities to build relationships, explore interests, and be part of their community. Reading Club is a wonderful example of what happens when someone like Mr. Tom shares a passion they love,” says Jaime McClure, Director of Day Support, Case Management and Respite Services.
Tom makes a point to build personal connections with each member of the group. Those relationships have become one of the most meaningful parts of his volunteer experience.
“What keeps me coming back is the joy I see in the faces of the individuals who comprise what everyone calls ‘Mr. Tom’s Reading Club,'” he said. “Their smiling faces make my week.”
Tom’s story is a great reminder that volunteering doesn’t have to start with a special skill or a grand plan. Sometimes it starts with something as simple as sharing a hobby, talent, or passion you already have.
“There are so many people in our community who benefit from opportunities to build relationships with new people and learn new things,” Tom said. “Whether the time we volunteers give is big or small, it can make a meaningful difference and is appreciated by SOAR365 participants and their families.”
What began with a love of reading has become a meaningful way to bring people together. Through stories, conversation, and consistency, Mr. Tom has created a space where everyone feels welcome. That’s the kind of impact that lasts long after the final page is turned.
Interested in volunteering with SOAR365? Learn more by exploring our website or contact Liz Harris Baker, Director of Volunteer Engagement, at (804) 665-1210 or [email protected]. SOAR365 offers fun and rewarding opportunities for individuals or groups to give back!
