By Steve Morris, Volunteer Manager
July 25, 20204
The volunteers who make up our Library help us fulfill our duty to the Winter Park community in a great many ways. From helping our patrons to making memories at our events, you can find volunteers at the core of many things the Library accomplishes. Sometimes, what brightens our future is how we preserve our community’s past.
In our Memory Lab and Archives, you will find volunteers like Howard Jaffe – a longtime volunteer of over five years whose dedication, kindness, and experience has enriched our historical catalog and Library staff members in a hugely positive way. We asked Howard to speak on his experience volunteering at our Library and what it means to him.
When Howard and his husband retired and moved to Florida from the Washington, DC area, he began looking for interesting volunteer opportunities, particularly those that involved local history. "Volunteering with the Winter Park Archives definitely fits that description," he says. His interest in history, combined with his background, made him a perfect fit for our Memory Lab and Archives.
Howard’s volunteer work involves scanning archival materials of all kinds, including newspaper clippings, personal papers of prominent Winter Park residents from the past hundred years, and historical information about old hotels and homes that are long gone. His meticulous work in preserving these materials ensures that future generations will have access to the rich history of Winter Park. "In every way possible! It feeds my soul and gives my life so much joy," Howard says of his volunteer work.
Beyond his volunteer efforts, Howard is also passionate about music. He has a degree in music, sings with the Bach Festival Chorus, and plays cocktail piano music around town. His love for the arts adds another dimension to his multifaceted personality, and it is evident that music is a significant part of his life. Howard's favorite book, "Body and Soul" by Frank Conroy, reflects his deep connection to music and literature. His love for reading and music are integral parts of who he is, and they complement his dedication to preserving history.
One particularly meaningful experience for Howard was volunteering with Neighbors Network, where he met the widow of the concertmaster from the Orlando Philharmonic. Helping to organize all of her husband’s violin music was an amazing experience, allowing him to connect with the community on a deeper level. "It has been an amazing experience organizing all of her husband’s violin music," he recalls.
Volunteering has profoundly impacted Howard's life, reinforcing the values his mother instilled in him to "pay it forward" and give back to the community. Reflecting on his blessings and the opportunities he has had, Howard hopes that his volunteer activities are making the world a better place. "I have been blessed with so much and am always aware that there are so many people out there who haven’t had the good luck and opportunities that have come my way," he says.
When asked what makes our Library a place where people want to volunteer, Howard emphasizes the inclusive environment and the welcoming Library staff. "The professionalism and kindness of the staff make all the difference, creating an interesting and enriching volunteer experience," he notes. The welcoming environment and supportive staff at our Library play a crucial role in attracting and retaining dedicated volunteers like Howard, creating a space where they feel valued and engaged. Howard Jaffe's story is a testament to the profound impact that dedicated volunteers can have on a community. His work in preserving Winter Park's history, combined with his musical talents and heartfelt commitment to giving back, enriches our Library and community in countless ways.