I got involved with the SVHS by accident, or by serendipity.  I was looking for something to do for the community rather than for myself. (I already have plenty of hobbies that I enjoy.)  My wife heard that the SVHS was looking for a bookkeeper, but when I spoke with Phil P., the President, I learned that the spot was already filled.  When he heard that I had run my own construction company, he asked if I would like to be the new Custodian.  Kismet.

I bought my house in Manasquan 20 years ago just to be close to the ocean, so it's actually the other trustees who are the real authorities on our local history.  But as I've gotten older, I'm gaining a new appreciation for both the past and the future life of one's own community.  I also worked as a city planner, so construction and thinking about the future of the Historical Society come second nature for me.  

My advice to others?  Pick a local community organization, anyone will do, and get involved.  Everyone has something to offer.  When you do something to help others, you actually end up helping yourself.  

I wish you good luck with your own future.

Tom Sims