Jack Morrison
Jack grew up in the Philadelphia area and after high school studied for several years at St. Charles Seminary in Overbrook, Philadelphia. He later completed his undergraduate work at St. Joseph’s University and received an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Jack went on to work at Wells Fargo and its legacy organizations for over 30 years, and prior to his retirement last year, was Senior Vice President and Director of Staffing for the bank’s East Coast Division.
He and his partner, Bob Dobbs, have been together for 19 years. They met through a mutual friend and work colleague in Philadelphia. The couple had visited Rehoboth as summer weekenders for many years and in 2006 they purchased a building lot at Rehoboth Beach Yacht and Country Club.
At that time, their plan was to eventually build their post retirement home here. That plan was fulfilled last spring and they now reside in their new home, along with their dog, Katie, during the spring, summer, and fall months. The couple have “become snowbirds in the winter,” living at their condo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
When did you start volunteering at CAMP and what events/activities have you been involved with since?
I began volunteering at CAMP shortly after moving to RB in the spring of 2013, after attending a Volunteer Orientation Session. Since then I’ve volunteered at a Membership mailing party, helped with the 2013 Sundance, participated in a VOV (CAMP’s Volunteer On Vacation program) Sussex County Habitat for Humanity event, and am currently volunteering one day a week at the Unfinished Business Thrift Store, and one day a week at the front office at CAMP Rehoboth.
What’s your best memory volunteering here?
Best memory is working with the 2013 Sundance Team. It was uplifting to see so many people working together to support our community. It was a great way to meet many new people after having just moved to the beach.
Of the many events held by CAMP Rehoboth, which is your favorite and why?
My experience as a VOV was a favorite, partnering with the Sussex County Habitat for Humanity and seeing how appreciative the recipient was with us lending a hand to help repair her home.
Favorite season here at the beach and why?
Early fall. We love the warm temperatures by day and the cooler evenings. It’s great being able to still spend time at the beach, jog along the boardwalk, and drive up and down Route 1 when there’s less traffic.
Name a childhood crush or idol.
As a young boy in the early 1960’s, I clearly remember JFK, our 35th President of the United States, and his call for Americans to serve their country. For me that has remained an inspiring and memorable appeal.
You’re a fly on the wall of any room, who’s in that room and what are/were they talking about?
I’d like to be a fly on the wall at the Vatican as Pope Francis meets with church leaders to discuss efforts to focus the church more on ministering to the poor and marginalized around the world.
Favorite U.S. city and why?
During my career I had the good fortune of working in several cities across the country so I have several favorites…San Francisco, NYC, and Washington, DC. However, my allegiance would be to my home town of Philadelphia due to its’ rich colonial history, fine restaurants, great museums, educational institutions, and its ongoing support of the LGBT community.
Name three of your “bucket list” items.
A European River Cruise to celebrate our retirements; to soon complete the remaining landscaping work at our new RBYCC home; and to continue spending spring, summer, and fall here in Rehoboth, and the winter months in Ft. Lauderdale.
Best year of your life and why?
This year! I‘ve had a wonderful past and my experiences have each led me to a great today...Life is Good!
Favorite holiday and why?
Thanksgiving. I will always cherish the wonderful warm Thanksgiving memories with family and friends throughout the years. My mother and dad always prepared the feast together and made it very special. They taught us to always be thankful for the many blessings in our lives.
Name the biggest change you’ve seen in Rehoboth and how long have you been coming here?
We’ve been coming to RB for nearly 20 years. Aside from the obvious growth and development of the town itself, the other change that we’ve seen is the ability of CAMP Rehoboth to build a home with “room for all,” a house with a heart, and a place that welcomes everyone.
Name an event that has shaped your life to where it is today.
9/11/01. I worked for the Bank in NYC 2000-2001. On the early morning of 9/11, I traveled over to North Jersey for what was to be a day of meetings. At around 7:30 a.m., I remember looking over at the beautiful skyline of Manhattan. Just a short time later, I, along with my work colleagues, watched the nightmare unfold across the river. I will never forget the horror of that experience and the memory of that fateful day. I often think back to that day and remember how precious life is and to live each day to the fullest.
Most embarrassing moment?
I traveled frequently with my job and generally managed to keep organized and “on time” over the years...with one exception. Early one morning, when traveling with a group of colleagues, I went through airport security and proceeded to the gate. Just before boarding, I heard my name being paged to return to the security area. I ran back to the gate to find that I had left my company-owned laptop behind. I then ran back to the gate and made it on board just as the door was closing. My colleagues got a kick out of watching me spring into action and never let me forget it! How embarrassing!
What are you most thankful for?
I’m most thankful for Bob, Katie, my wonderful family, treasured friends, and good health!
I had the good fortune of meeting you and Bob at last year’s Sundance when you graciously assisted with flowers and other tasks, as if you’d done it for years. In less than a year you’ve become very involved with CAMP Rehoboth and we’re very grateful for all of your volunteer efforts.
Know someone whose efforts should be considered for the CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Spotlight? Email your suggestion.
Photo: Jack Morrison and Bob Dobbs
