Going the Extra Mile

About five years ago, Huntington "Hunt" Mason responded to a newspaper ad for volunteers and signed up with Volunteer Solutions shortly thereafter. His primary activity is transporting older adults on shopping and banking trips, among other errands. Occasionally, he drives clients to and from their medical appointments.

With more than 30 years as a government employee, Hunt has devoted considerable time to his volunteer activities on the weekends, at times after hectic workweeks. Occasionally, his job requires foreign and domestic travel, but Hunt has consistently gone the extra mile to conduct weekend volunteer tasks for five years.

Hunt recalls the day he took a client to a store far from home. Only after returning to the residence, the client discovered that a purchased item had to be returned and exchanged. Without hesitation, Hunt agreed to make a second trip to fulfill the client's need. Hunt felt a strong sense of accomplishment, as he had gone the extra mile to relieve the client of some stress that day.

Volunteering helps Hunt feel more connected to his community and meet people he would not necessarily encounter in his everyday activities. He takes satisfaction in helping older adults actively engage in meeting their needs. By utilizing his outgoing personality and active listener skills, Hunt easily builds and maintains trust with clients. He enjoys hearing about their life experiences and special challenges.

In the free time that Hunt does have, he frequently hikes and bikes along the C&O Canal and other trails in Maryland and Virginia. His next big venture is a multiday biking tour of the entire C&O Canal Towpath from Washington, DC to Cumberland, MD, about 370 miles round trip! Hunt also loves to read about historical events and people, availing himself of the many historical sites and museums our region offers.

Hunt plans to retire from federal service in about two years, at which time he'll consider volunteering more. For now, he'll continue to go that extra mile, mainly to see the smiles on the faces of clients who are so appreciative of his support.