In his free time, Mel enjoys reading fiction and watching "feel good" movies. He decided to become an RSVP volunteer two years ago because he didn't consider himself a handyman and wanted to keep a schedule to his days and keep busy during his retirement. Mel is a Rock & Reader at Lemme Elementary, and a volunteer at the Iowa City Police Department. Through RSVP he serves on the University of Iowa College of Law mock jury. More time is spent volunteering at the Animal Care and Adoption Facility and the Iowa City Public Library. Mel also works as an instructor for the Simulated Patient program at the University Hospital.
Through Rock & Read, Mel works with children who need to catch up with their peers in reading. During the eight month school period, he watches children improve from the one-on-one help he provides.
Mel enjoys giving back to the community. He feels that since he has used the community's facilities throughout the years, volunteering can be his way of giving back to them.
