“Volunteering in the woodshop has given me a whole new lease on life. After a long career running a business, I decided it was time to semi-retire and pick up woodworking – something that I love and would now have more time for. Three years ago, I took my first class and I haven’t looked back.
Working and learning in the wood shop seemed to be the perfect outlet for me. With instructor Hershey Fitleberg’s encouragement and teaching, he saw that I was quite capable and suggested I become a volunteer. What I could not have anticipated is the true camaraderie and friendship I have found in the wood shop. Everyone helps one another with whatever is needed. Our woodworkers are a talented bunch of guys with many more experienced than me always eager to show me different ways of doing things. I learn from everybody and improve my craft each time I am there.
Giving my time in the wood shop has opened up my sense of creativity which I didn’t know I had. I now work as a volunteer twice a week producing items to raise money for the Centre for sale in the gift shop. I feel so good about giving back to the community – being at the Cummings Centre has given me that opportunity“ – Marty Cooper.
Keep an eye out for our Volunteer Open House and check out current volunteer opportunities — your own passion might be waiting to be discovered at the Cummings Centre!