A Birthday to Remember at LifeTown
Volunteer Neal Leavitt is known for his infectious smile, endless positivity, and dedication to all the kids who excitedly walk through the LifeTown Shoppes. Leavitt typically puts his retail experience to use at the Bank, counting out money for eager shoppers. He can also be found volunteering at the Team Gear T-shirt Shoppe, apropos for his experience working for iconic brands like Calvin Klein.
On April 16, Leavitt’s morning at the Shoppes was even more special because he was celebrating his 80th birthday. Leavitt brought in a variety of cookies, cupcakes, and cakes to celebrate the major milestone with his LifeTown family.
“It’s a really significant birthday so I thought what a wonderful place to celebrate,” said an exuberant Leavitt. “My wife agreed to give up her canasta game this morning to come volunteer with me today. It feels wonderful to be here on my birthday. I couldn’t think of a better place to be, than here today.”
As Leavitt prepared the Team Gear shop for customers, a festive balloon floating by his station, fellow volunteers wished him a happy birthday and surrounded him with love. Volunteering at LifeTown isn’t only an opportunity to give back to the community. It’s an opportunity to meet new people, socialize, and connect. Volunteers form strong bonds, creating a cherished community of their own.
“As you get older, it’s great when you can meet new friends, and everybody here is so welcoming,” said Leavitt. “You get such a wonderful feeling from the mitzvah that you’re doing here. If I had the ability to come four days a week, I would.”
Leavitt spends most of his time giving back to various communities. In the evenings, Leavitt volunteers remotely, teaching underemployed minorities the skills needed to gain employment.
“I get to change people’s lives and at LifeTown I can make a little kid smile asking for a fist bump or a high five. It’s a joy and it lasts longer than the two-hour Shoppes experience. It has a lasting effect that you really feel.”
On Leavitt’s birthday, and every day, that joy is a two-way street.
