Why we picked Jerry: Jerry came to the Y in November 2023 because he had recently retired and was interesting in spending some of his newfound time volunteering. He quickly became a volunteer extraordinaire logging more than 280 hours in 2024. Just in case you are wondering, that is the record! Jerry has been an incredible gift to our Volunteer Coordinator, the Y, and the many people whose lives he has touched these past two years. We hope you see a little bit of yourself in Jerry and that he inspires you to join us.
What volunteer roles have you taken on at the Y?
I’ve volunteered with Key Zone at Piedmont Elementary School, Harbor Highlands Drop-In summer program, Miracle League Baseball program, Food Distribution at the EWC, YMCA Fun Days and I also serve on the YMCA at the Essentia Wellness Center Advisory Council.
What originally got you interested in volunteering with the Y?
When I retired, my plan was to do volunteer work and give back to the community. When researching various volunteer opportunities in the Duluth area, I found that the YMCA provided numerous volunteer opportunities.
What do you do when you are not out volunteering with the Y?
I love the outdoors. In summer, I rollerblade, bike, and fish. In the winter I cross country ski almost every day and downhill ski about 10 times a winter. My wife and I also like to travel. This year we are planning to visit Peru in September.
Where is a place you've always wanted to travel?
When we got married, my wife and I made a bucket list of places that we wanted to visit. We have visited four of them so far. Still on the list is Peru, river cruise in Europe, Australia, Costa Rica, and Alaska.
What other volunteer work, organizations, etc. are involved with?
I volunteer for Reading Pals at Hermantown Elementary School, Laundry Love, and Special Olympics when opportunities arise.
If you are currently employed and could pick any job, besides the one you are doing now, what would you pick?
I am retired, and I enjoy the volunteer work that I am currently doing. I enjoy working with kids, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Since Duluth is one of the "outdoor capitals of the world", I have to ask a camping question. Would you rather camp in an RV or stay in a tent?
Tent!