On Monday and Thursday mornings, members taking part in music therapy sessions provided by IVC partner agency Upcounty Community Resources (UCR) are greeted by Bob Brady, who helps ensure they have a great experience. He’s already prepared their meeting space, set out instruments and consulted with the music therapist. Now he’s ready to assist as needed. For Bob and the members, another fun program is about to begin!
UCR provides therapeutically based programs and social events for residents of Montgomery County, Maryland with developmental and intellectual differences, and their families. UCR serves roughly 400 individuals annually through a variety of programs, including WORKS skills, respite and weekend enrichment, therapeutic art/music, coffee club and large socials. Large socials usually include more than 100 people going to events like dinner and a show, a Nats baseball game, holiday seasonal outings and more!
IVC has partnered with UCR for ten years, with previous volunteers like Marianne Green and Ellen Stuhlmann providing key administrative support. “We’re blessed to have this connection,” says UCR Executive Director Jenn Lynn. Jenn’s first contact with IVC was CEO Mary McGinnity, who served as a founding UCR board member and advisor. “I always go back to IVC because of the work they do to match a volunteer with our needs. They provide staying power and reliability, and we’re very happy to have them!”
Bob is happy to be there, too. “I do whatever needs to be done,” he says. Many of the members have highly specialized needs, and some are nonverbal. But even then, he feels a connection. “I give a little fist bump to everyone when they arrive, and to their caregivers as well.” During their time together, Bob’s presence and assistance enables the music therapist to provide more music and activities.
Bob came to IVC following a long career as a Ph.D chemist in the federal sector, primarily in a leadership position with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory. Following retirement, he obtained a master’s degree in spirituality and pastoral care. At his parish, St. Rose of Lima in Gaithersburg, Md., Bob served as a pastoral associate and continues to serve in many volunteer ministries. It was at St. Rose that he heard IVC Senior Director Mike Goggin speak, and decided to join.
When Jenn needed a new volunteer to support UCR’s music therapy classes, she reached out to Mike and the connection was made! She says she relies on Bob as she has on past IVC members to help be the face of UCR. “They connect us to others who also share resources with us. People in the community need to see the capability of our individuals so its mutually beneficial to feel part of something.”
Bob is grateful to be at UCR and thoroughly enjoys working with the members. And he enjoys the spirituality and fellowship provided by IVC. “There’s a great range of experiences that people bring to us and share.” He looks forward to making even more beautiful music with the members he now calls friends!