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Al Hribar
RSVP Volunteer
Marion, OH
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Most of Al Hribar's days begin on the Marion north bus, then a quick transfer to the west bus; 40 minutes later Al arrives at the Marion Clark Community Action Center in Marion.Once inside, Al pours a cup of coffee and settles into his same comfortable seat in front of the piano.For nearly five years, familiar tunes have been heard throughout the center played by Al. Playing piano music at the Senior Meal site is Al's volunteer contribution for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program.
For Al, learning to play the piano took an exceptional amount of discipline and training; receiving 10 years of piano lessons in elementary school, reading music from Braille, and learning by ear Al has mastered the piano. As an adult, Al received training as a piano tuner through the Bureau of Services of the Vision Impaired. Al is blind in his eyes, but not in his heart. Catching the bus four to five times a week, he dedicates his days to the seniors who congregate together at the meal site. Playing swing music is Al's favorite because he says-seniors like it the best! Having their favorite songs as well, Al loves to play for the staff members before and after the meal. Also located at the center, are Head Start classrooms. Playing with the children and giving them music to sing gives Al joy.
Being over 55, Al was eligible for the RSVP program as a volunteer. RSVP provides Al with a bus pass because he cannot drive to his station. While at the center, Al enjoys eating lunch with the Senior Meal Program and says he is thankful for volunteering, because he has wonderful friends there.
Thank you Al for giving so much of yourself ...as a volunteer!
If you would like to nominate a special person for the Volunteer Spotlight, please email John Poole at john.poole@ocsc.state.us