BUCYRUS — Rex Hart does not allow anything to stop him from helping others, not even his disabilities. The 26-year-old volunteer helps various organizations, including the Salvation Army, all over the county.
“I like meeting new people and making friends,” Hart said as he rang the bell at the main entrance at Kroger in Bucyrus on Friday.
Amanda Moran of Chrysalis Advantage Point sets up Hart’s volunteer work. The mission of the organization is to connect people with disabilities with area organizations so they have a safe and accessible environment to develop, enrich and transform skills leading to meaningful community contribution.
“Rex enjoys making a meaningful impact in the community and to give back. He volunteers at the Salvation Army and several other places such as both the Bucyrus and Galion YMCAs, the food pantry at New Day Ministries and many others,” Moran said.
Hart said being part of the Red Kettle program allows him to connect with people throughout the holiday season.
“I make a lot of new friends,” Hart said as he rang the bells while people dropped money into the kettle to be used by the Salvation Army throughout the year to help those in need.
According to Heidi Valdez of the Salvation Army in Bucyrus, the Red Kettle is one of the most recognized symbols in the Salvation Army.
“During the Christmas Season, the kettles remind people that the needs of the community are great and as such, the Kettles invite the community to partner with the Salvation Army’s mission to serve,” Valdez said. “The funds raised during the month-long campaign directly support the work and mission of the Salvation Army, here in Bucyrus and Crawford County.”
Valdez said Hart has been a joy to work with.
“He had perfect attendance at his Kettle Stand, greeting everyone with a smile and a ‘Merry Christmas!’” Valdez said. “In addition to ringing the bells, Rex routinely volunteers at the Salvation Army cleaning and helping unload the delivery truck for our pantry.”
Moran, who heads up Chrysalis that is located at 1989 Bucyrus-Nevada Road, partnered with her mom, Kimm Kessinger of Abilities in Action, to open the facility for people with disabilities three years ago. It is a person-centered habilitation facility that offers individualized plans designed to enhance skills and foster independence.
“Getting his own place is one of Rex’s goals,” Moran said. “We are very proud of him and the impact he is making on the community through his volunteer work.”
For more information about Chrysalis, visit the organization’s Facebook page or call (419) 617-1564.