More than a Volunteer

Every community is built one relationship at a time. In this series, we'll share stories of the citizens, volunteers, families, and friends who make 210 Collective what it is. This month, we're remembering one of our very first volunteers and the lessons he taught us about belonging. Last week, our 210 Collective family lost one of our very first volunteers.

Tony Barberia passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship, humor, and kindness that touched all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.

Every Monday morning, long before our citizens arrived, Tony would show up to help set up tables, move supplies, and prepare our space for the day ahead. If something needed fixing, organizing, or improving, Tony was often the first to jump in and help. He was a proud veteran, a devoted husband of 58 years, and a reliable volunteer at 210 Collective. He loved to tease and no matter your age, Tony was likely to greet you with a smile and call you "kid." It didn't matter if you were 22 or 62. To Tony, you were still "kid."

He loved to joke that his wife, whom he affectionately referred to as his "manager,” had decided he needed something to do and had sent him to work at 210. After 58 years of marriage, she apparently still knew how to keep him busy. But we all knew better. Tony wasn't showing up because he had to. He showed up because he loved being here. He loved our citizens. He loved our volunteers. He loved being part of what was happening at 210 Collective. While Tony faithfully helped with setup each week, what I'll remember most wasn't the work he did - it was the relationships he built.

One day, Tony spent a large portion of his volunteer shift talking with one of our citizens about computers. It wasn't just casual conversation. Tony had spent much of his career in the early days of the computer industry, and he genuinely enjoyed sharing stories and hearing about our citizen's interests.

A few days later, Tony returned with a special gift. He had gone home and found an original computer chip encased in epoxy from his own collection. It represented a piece of his life's work and career. He brought it back specifically for that citizen. He was the kind of man who listened and paid attention. He remembered what mattered to people, and he found ways to make them feel valued.

When we started 210 Collective, we knew there was a tremendous need for meaningful work and community among adults with intellectual disabilities. What we didn't fully realize was how many other people were searching for those same things. Many adults with disabilities experience isolation after high school as familiar routines and relationships begin to disappear. But they aren't the only ones. Many retirees are looking for meaningful ways to contribute. Many people are searching for purpose after a career ends. Many people simply want to know they are still needed.

What we've discovered is that 210 Collective isn't only changing the lives of our citizens. It is creating opportunities for people from different generations, backgrounds, and abilities to build genuine friendships and contribute alongside one another. Our citizens contribute meaningful work. Our volunteers contribute their gifts, talents, wisdom, and life experiences. And together, they create a community that is richer than either could build alone.

As our program continues to grow, I find myself increasingly grateful for people like Tony. His fingerprints are all over 210 Collective - in the tables he set up, the problems he solved, the stories he told, the jokes he shared, and the friendships he built. The greatest lesson Tony leaves behind is that everyone has something valuable to contribute. Everyone, no matter their age, ability, or their stage of life.

As we honor Tony's memory, we are also reminded that there are many more people who could benefit from being part of a community like this. Our citizens need mentors, encouragers, and friends. Our volunteers often discover that they receive just as much as they give.

If Tony's story resonates with you, we would love to talk with you about joining our volunteer team. You can contact us at admin@210collective.org. As 210 Collective continues to grow, we are always looking for caring people who want to invest their time, talents, skills, and life experiences into the lives of our citizens.

Thank you, Tony, for showing up every Monday. Thank you for calling us "kid,” for making us laugh, for serving your country, loving your family, and caring so deeply for our community. Thank you for helping build the kind of place where everyone belongs.

You will be deeply missed, and fondly remembered.

Heidi Karant
210 Founder and Executive Director