Teresa
Are you a veteran?
I am not, BUT my son is stationed in the US Navy in NAS Jax. I just returned from 9mts in the Red Sea with the Swamp Foxes aboard the USS Philippine Sea…. I had to say that, as I am such a proud mama.
When did you start volunteering at the Travis Mills Foundation?
I think it was August of 2021.
What inspired you to sign up as a volunteer?
A random run-in with the man himself…Travis Mills…I had no idea that our encounter would change my life.
Lakeside Motel and Marina has been our vacation spot for over two decades. During the first season of Travis’ ownership, I was outside doing my CrossFit workout in the grassy area by the swings. Here comes this huge truck, and out pops this guy…now he is coming toward the 50-something-year-old lady! He just started talking to me, and we started this conversation about Crossfit and a few other things – Ha! Soon after, we parted ways, but I had never forgotten his kindness and energy toward the random stranger (me).
Anyway, I was watching the news months later, and he was there again! I yelled to Bob, “Yo! That guy from Lakeside that day is on the news!”
He was being interviewed, and at that point, I learned a bit more about his journey, especially the journey of TMF.
Flash forward to the next summer, when we became owners of a camp. I’m getting a little annoyed because my husband is spending too much time on improvement projects, so I figured I’d better find something to do as well.
That’s when the thought came to me – “I bet that guy Travis needs volunteers.”
Long answer, I know, but it’s so worth telling that story every time I am asked.
Career:
Retired teacher of all things – science! Presently, I am working at Upper Pond Stables in Litchfield.
In what areas/departments at the Retreat/Foundation have you volunteered?
- Kitchen
- Dog Sled Crossing Guard
- Ice Fishing
- Lawn Mower
- Cart Washer
- Housekeeping
- First Mate
- Boat Captain
- Tmf Plane Pull Squad
- Halloween Trunk Or Treat
- Christmas Outdoor Decorating
- Waterfront Helper
- Airport Driver
What do you enjoy most and why?
Kitchen and Fishing:
- The kitchen allows me to get to know all the faces! I love food prep! I especially love PATHH weeks in the kitchen because I witness firsthand our guests’ transition.
- Fishing – words cannot describe what it is like out there with our Recalibrateds and watching them breathe easy, tilt their heads back into the sun, and so many beautiful things…which may or may not include a fish.
Do you have a favorite story from volunteering that you’d like to share?
I listed fishing above as a favorite, but that was not the case until the past few summers, now I love it.
John Romac called me in a desperate situation for a fisherman. I had never been out on a TMF fishing shift, and I told him about my ABSOLUTE fear of fish hooks. Well, as only John can do, I am on that boat the next day! Picture this: Three young boys with lines and hooks everywhere and I have to appear calm and brave. I made it through and returned to the dock, no longer afraid of fish hooks … and now, I love to fish.
What have you learned about TMF since volunteering?
I see firsthand the dedication from the staff, but in my experience, the shining star is Chef Hannah Flannery. I have learned so much about how the kitchen runs and never knew how much goes into her job. I never knew! She’s amazing.
Bob
When did you start volunteering at the Travis Mills Foundation?
August, 2022.
What inspired you to sign up as a volunteer?
My wife volunteered there and always talked about it, which interested me.
If you’re comfortable, please share a bit about your current or past employment:
I’m a retired school teacher. I taught woodshop and engineering for 30 years and also was a bartender for 25 years.
In what areas/departments at the Retreat/Foundation have you volunteered
Mainly in the kitchen, but I like to help set up events and putting out Christmas decorations.
What do you enjoy most and why?
The kitchen, working with my friends, Hannah, Amanda, and Mary (pictured below).
Since volunteering, what have you learned about TMF that you didn’t know before?
I just know now that there is an amazing group of individuals who volunteer in an unmerited act of compassion and a workforce that continually strives to give each person who visits an awesome experience.
