For more than 20 years, Jerry Cole has dedicated his time to supporting the mission and programming of GEARS in Elizabethtown. To honor his contributions to the organization, a tree was planted in front of the GEARS Community Center, 70 S. Poplar St. Current GEARS board members, GEARS staff members and program participants joined in the celebration, and thank you cards were presented by students from the GEARS preschool and kindergarten programs, as well as participants from the senior center.

"Jerry served 23 years on the GEARS board and played an integral role in starting GEARS in 2000," said David Wendel, executive director of GEARS. "Jerry served as the chairman of the GEARS board and helped lead the organization through some difficult times, most notably the pandemic. Jerry could always be relied upon to volunteer his time outside of his duties as board chairman, especially with programs that targeted children and seniors."

Cole said volunteering has always been important to him. "I have a strong passion for recreation and its importance in our community," he shared. "Being able to give back to my community as a member of the GEARS board was so important because recreation impacts all members of our community, from children to seniors. The benefits are endless."

Cole, who lives in Mount Joy Township, served as a Mount Joy Township supervisor for 30 years. "I helped start three park projects in Mount Joy Township, so I understand the value of recreation," he said.

Volunteers like Cole play a critical role in supporting the operations and management of GEARS, Wendel commented. "In addition, they act as ambassadors by promoting the programs and events provided by GEARS in our community," he said.

GEARS is a regional provider of recreation and community services in Elizabethtown Borough, East Donegal Township, West Donegal Township and Mount Joy Township. It serves more than 40,000 people with recreation activities and events, licensed child care services and senior center programs.

For more information on GEARS, visit http://www.getintogears.org.