July 2013 Volunteer of the Month- Andrew Schaeffer

Congratulations to Andrew Schaeffer, our July 2013 Volunteer of the Month!

Andrew is originally from Ohio and has a Bachelors degree in History and German studies from Union College.  He was on the track and cross country team all throughout high school and college and went on to teach English classes in Germany after graduating.  These experiences inspired him to become a personal trainer because he likes being able to teach and interact with people on a one on one basis and foster such connections.

Andrew currently works at Equinox gym but has made time to volunteer with Met Council since November 2012. For the past 9 months, he has been leading a fitness workshop for seniors at our Feinberg senior residence. He has excelled as a volunteer and demonstrates outstanding commitment to the clients. Each week, he comes prepared with a lesson plan that is geared towards each specific client’s strengths and abilities.  He makes sure to give each client specialized attention for their needs. Andrew has also generously donated some equipment such as mats and weights from the gym he works at to ensure our clients have the best experience.

Andrew believes that it is important to contribute to the community any way you can when he states, “if you have a skill, you should share it for free sometimes.”  He thinks that fitness classes are important but often too expensive.  He enjoys helping people feel better and reduce physical pain by providing these free lessons and making fitness accessible to all. After months of leading this weekly fitness workshop for our clients, Andrew and the clients have developed personal relationships beyond instructor and participants. As Meredith Balk, a resident and participant, describes, “You will always feel better after the class, physically and mentally.”

On behalf of our staff and clients, we thank Andrew for the hundreds of hours he has devoted to Met Council and appreciate all the aid you have provided our clients!