Hamilton resident Jim Venlet has always been supportive of his local Hamilton Community School district but he has recently taken that support to the next level. After retiring from the manufacturing industry after 45 years, Venlet started to brainstorm ways he could give something back to his community.
In early May, Venlet began working for the Hawkeye Kids Before & After School Childcare program at Hamilton Elementary.
"I think I can help be a positive influence on some of these kids," Venlet explained. "It has been awesome, I've been a popular guy. I feel blessed that the kids have already taken to me so much."
Between playing with cars, doing crafts, planting helping with the indoor garden and playing gaga ball outdoors with the kids, Mr. Jim is a busy guy every morning.
"This makes me feel so thankful that the kids have accepted me like this," he added. "It looks like my goal of giving something back is going to work out, not just for me, but for the kids."
