Are you looking to give back to the community? Read about someone who is doing just that!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
A Lifetime of Giving Back
At 75, Meridith Gaskins is a shining example of a life dedicated to helping others. Living in Douglassville with her husband, Fred, Meridith cherishes her close-knit family, including their three children and four grandchildren, who all live nearby. With a bachelor’s degree in education from Mansfield University, Meridith spent 35 years shaping young lives as a preschool teacher, including 28 years as a Head Start educator in Pottstown.
Meridith’s passion for volunteering began in her teenage years as a candy striper at a local hospital and a day camp volunteer for the YMCA. Her dedication to giving back continued throughout her life, from teaching Sunday School at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church since the 1980’s to helping at a Mustang rescue and joining mission trips. For the past four years, Meridith has been a cornerstone of Berks Encore Douglassville, dedicating her time to the Meals on Wheels program. Once a week, she delivers meals to local seniors and spends the next morning packing meals in the center’s kitchen. When asked why she volunteers, Meridith shared, *“I truly enjoy helping at Berks Encore. I love meeting the people receiving the meals and the people I work with to package the meals. We enjoy lots of laughs and volunteering keeps me busy.”
Meridith finds joy not only in giving but also in the connections she’s made through volunteering at Berks Encore. She appreciates Greg, who kindly carries her delivery bags to her car, and enjoys the wisdom of Maryanne, the humor of Gail, and the sweetness of Sharon, the Douglassville Center Manager. She also cherishes her partnership with Judy, her delivery companion, who brings a sense of camaraderie to their weekly route. Beyond volunteering, Meridith enjoys traveling, reading, staying active at the YMCA, and walking with friends. She is grateful for the kind and generous people she has met through Berks Encore, who have enriched her life.
Meridith’s story is a testament to the power of volunteering—not just to help others, but to build meaningful relationships and create a sense of purpose. If you’ve ever considered volunteering, Meridith’s journey shows how rewarding it can be. Whether you’re delivering meals or lending a helping hand in the kitchen, you’ll not only make a difference in someone’s life but also find joy, friendship, and laughter along the way. For more information visit berksencore.org or contact Michelle Goodhart, Volunteer
Coordinator 610-374-3195 ext. 225 or email mgoodhart@berksencore.org.
