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!
