Gary Charles likes the notion of reaching out to neighbors who may be going through a rough spot in their lives. He knows the services provided by Interfaith Outreach make a big difference for these families and our community is strengthened when neighbors help neighbors.
Gary started his journey with Interfaith Outreach working through his church to provide occasional meals for an area housing unit. It was heartening for him to see how grateful folks were that their neighbors cared about them and their families. Gary was inspired by these encounters and by meeting other Interfaith Outreach volunteers committed to strengthening our community!
Gary knows another way to build a strong community is to work with our youth. For several years he was a tutor with Homework Club in Shenandoah Woods, meeting with many bright kids of a variety of ages. Gary was constantly surprised and amused by their refreshing comments and unique perspectives.
This year, Gary is working with the Great Expectations Initiative, exploring how to bring community resources to address the educational achievement and opportunity gap among students in the Wayzata and Orono school districts. He is part of an Action Team looking at students in the 6 to 8-year-old range.
Thank you, Gary. Your ongoing commitment is an inspiration to all of us!