Hempfield man gives back to Westmoreland County with food, book donations

Jeremiah Washburn loves taking walks and going on car rides.

Now, he gives back to the community while enjoying these pastimes.

Washburn, who has an intellectual disability and autism, gathers used books and nonperishable food items and donates them to Little Free Libraries and food pantry drop-offs throughout Westmoreland County.

The 33-year-old Hempfield man has been collecting donations for the past two months. Community members and local organizations such as the Delmont Public Library and Westmoreland Casemanagement and Supports have aided Washburn in his efforts.

Washburn’s sister, Amanda List, said the activity benefits Washburn’s success and engagement with the community.

“He likes riding in the car and going for walks, so how can we add something to that so that it has purpose beyond that? That’s how we got to these little pantries and libraries,” List said. “Instead of trying to add behavior supports and add supports to make him successful in how we think he should be … we’re just building a new program around him.”

Washburn cannot communicate verbally, instead using body language. Since 2009, he has received residential support from Merakey, a social service group that provides him with one-on-one support, a home, a van and 24-hour care.

Washburn’s support staff accompanies him while he’s giving back to the community.

Many of the staff members have known Washburn for years. Shelly Jordan, who has offered Washburn direct support for over a decade, described him as funny and smart.

Washburn loves music, bowling, swimming and equestrian therapy. He is ambitious and helps out with household tasks, according to Merakey team supervisor Melynda Malloy.

Every person with an intellectual disability has different needs, pastimes and enjoyments. While daylong programs work for some, Washburn enjoys being active in the community.

Merakey regional director Jamie Walker said it is important to encourage Washburn and others to go out and contribute. Washburn’s participation benefits him and others.

“A lot of times in society, you come across someone like Jeremiah and you’re like, ‘I don’t know how to talk to him. I don’t know how to engage. I’m not trying to be rude, I just don’t know what to do.’ … As they get to know him, I’m sure there are going to be people who are like, ‘Hey, Jeremiah’s here,’ ” Walker said. “That’s what we want. We want it to be like ‘Cheers,’ where everybody knows your name.”

List said she believes it is important that her brother is successful, visible and contributing to his community.

List hopes Washburn’s impact will grow as he receives more support and recognition. She believes other community members with disabilities could contribute in similar ways.

“I really think we’re on the cusp of something meaningful, and I think that it’s so much bigger than Jeremiah,” List said. “I think this is just the beginning.”

Washburn collects and makes donations two or three times per week.

He is looking for community members to provide nonperishable foods or books as donations, or to share the locations of Little Free Libraries or food pantry drop-offs in the county.

Those who wish to help can email Malloy at melynda.malloy@merakey.org