This article originally appeared in Good Day, Berks — Spotlight PA’s free daily newsletter for Berks County and your daily dose of Berks County essentials. Sign up here.
This week’s Community Spotlight honoree is Tom Frebel, 64, a volunteer with Baseballtown Charities Dream League, a nonprofit that enables young and not-so-young players with physical and intellectual disabilities to play the sport.
This conversation, which took place through email, has been edited for length and clarity.
Good Day, Berks: Where do you live?
Tom Frebel: Sinking Spring.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife, Mary, and I have been married for 36 years. Our daughter, Ally, is 32 and our son, Wes, is 31. Both are married and we have one grandchild, Cooper, who is 16 months old.
Tell us about your work and what you like about it.
I have been a volunteer at Baseballtown Charities Dream League since its inception in 2018. The Dream League gives players who have physical and intellectual challenges the same chance as anyone else to enjoy the game of baseball. I love the enthusiasm of our athletes and the fun and joy we experience during every game.
I am the primary pitcher for most games. That allows me to interact closely with all the players, who range in age from four to 60. Their big smiles make the time I spend with them totally worthwhile. I am so proud to be part of this great organization.
Tell us about a challenge you faced.
My challenge has been to ensure that our athletes have an enjoyable experience every time they step onto the field. We are really fortunate to have so many local volunteers to help in our efforts.
Favorite place to eat in Berks County?
Too many choices! Anywhere is fine with me as long as I’m with family and friends.
Where would you take a visitor to in Berks and why?
I would take them to West Reading to enjoy the restaurants, bars, and wonderful businesses along the avenue. One of my favorite places to hang out is Barley Mow.
What book, poem, song, or artwork is meaningful to you?
Listening to music is a huge part of my life. I grew up in the ‘70s and ‘80s, which was a golden time for music. So many songs from that era are meaningful to me because they bring back fond memories of my youth. Give me any song from the Stones, Clash, or Neil Young and I will be very happy.
Who in your life has had a great influence on you, and how did they influence you?
My parents had the greatest influence on me. They provided a wonderful life for my four siblings and me and taught us how to be good human beings. However, over the past nine years, the Dream League players and their parents have also had an amazing influence on me. I have so much respect, admiration, and love for them all. They have taught me how to be a better human being.
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