Thomas O’Connor

Class of 2019

contact email

toconnor@discoverpaag.org

contact phone

website

https://discoverpaag.org/

Organization Name

Retired; teach a creative writing class, write a blog for my city, artist, musician - all in a volunteer capacity

Fellowship Project

Bob says I hold the record for getting the most amount of activities out the grant. I went to each activity leader and asked if they would donate half the cost as an in-kind gift as a way of matching Bob's giving initiative. They all said yes: I traveled to New Mexico to meet with authors and artist on American Indian reservations. I took a year-long communications class. I attended six months of art therapy. I took a series of classes on right brain/left brain understanding and how to use it in the work place. I took a series of oil painting classes.

Organization Affiliation During Your Fellowship Year

Easter Seals South Central Pennsylvania

greatest impact of your fellowship year

The relationships with my class and the resources they provide.

Why would you recommend the York federal fellows program?

York Federal Fellows is a lovely example of feeding the mind and soul of those individuals who so tirelessly, and often at their own expense, serve the community. I now live in Longmont, Colorado and I continue to practice all the lessons I learned. As well, Bob continues to be my go-to brain when I am thinking through an issue and need outside guidance.