By Diane Gallegos, Director of Program and Mission
The Arc of Hanover
In the bustling aisles of The Arc of Hanover Thrift Store, there is a sound more reliable than the chime of the front door: The laughter trailing behind James "Peanut" Tench.
To many, a thrift store is a place for hidden treasures. But for those who know James, he is one of our Store’s greatest finds.
The Heart at the
Donation Door
James has been part of the fabric of the Thrift Store since it was nothing more than a shared dream and a set of empty blueprints. Today, you’ll most likely find him at the donation door — the frontline of the mission. With a joke at the ready and a smile that feels like a warm greeting from an old friend, James transforms a simple drop-off into a moment of connection.
Whether he’s hauling boxes or offering an enthusiastic "Big thank you!" to a donor, James works with a spirit of pure, infectious joy. For him, volunteering with the Store isn't just a task; it’s a way to give back to the mission he has championed from day one.
A Resilience Forged in Fire
The strength James shows every day wasn't easily won. Years ago, James held a steady job and a different pace of life. Everything changed when he faced a devastating medical crisis — a series of strokes that robbed him of his ability to work and forced him into a grueling battle for his independence.
The road through rehabilitation was long and steep. It took immense physical and mental fortitude to regain his skills and his strength. But as James often says, while the fight was tough, he is tougher. His presence at The Arc of Hanover is a living testament to that resilience; he didn't just recover — he chose to use his second chance to serve others.
Beyond the Store Walls
James’ heart for service knows no borders. This drive recently took him to the streets of New York City for his second mission trip with his church. To get there, James had to raise the funds himself. He was humbled, though perhaps not surprised, to find that when he asked for help, the community was "eager to donate." They knew that a dollar given to James was a dollar that would directly feed and comfort someone facing homelessness.
Closer to home, James pours that same mentorship into the next generation. As a veteran of the Special Olympics, he doesn't just compete: He serves as a mentor for younger athletes. He shows them that a medical diagnosis doesn't define your finish line — your spirit does.
More Than a Volunteer — Family
When James speaks about his life today, he doesn't focus on what he lost during his strokes. Instead, he speaks of the "wonderful friendships" he has built through his church, his athletics, and his time at the Thrift Store.
At The Arc of Hanover, we don’t just see James as a volunteer. He is a cornerstone of our family. He reminds us every day that community service isn't just about the tasks we complete — it’s about the smiles we share and the strength we find in one another.
If you are a disability self-advocate, parent, caregiver or concerned citizen interested in writing a blog post for The Arc of Hanover -- on any subject -- please contact Sue Jeantheau, Communications Committee, at sue.jeantheau@thearcofhanover.org.
If you want to help people in Hanover County with intellectual or developmental disabilities via The Arc of Hanover, donate here.
