Today, we are sharing a story that embodies the true spirit of selflessness and community service. Meet Jim Manville, a man whose journey has taken him from a successful career as an electrical engineer to a dedicated member of the “Over the Hill Gang” at Ferncliff. Jim earned a BSEE degree from the University of Arkansas and later obtained his MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. His professional journey led him to work as an electrical engineer in St. Louis and later Atlanta. In 2001, Jim made a life-changing decision to retire and return to Arkansas with his wife Helen, to be closer to her mother, settling in the Brodie Creek area of Little Rock.

Jim and Helen began attending Second Presbyterian Church.  Learning that Jim was an engineer with a knack for handiwork, he was approached by Hallie Simmons, the church’s Volunteer Coordinator. Hallie’s husband, Kirk, led the “Over the Hill Gang” – a group of retirees channeling their skills for the greater good. Recognizing Jim’s talents, they recruited him into their ranks.

Jim’s work with the OTHG began in earnest, with a strong focus on community projects like Habitat for Humanity. Kirk became a mentor, translating theoretical knowledge into practical wisdom. The camaraderie and shared purpose within the group brought Jim a lot of joy.  Helen and Jim continued to get more involved in the life of the church and started leading a Sunday School Class together.

Life, however, had its challenges. Helen’s diagnosis of a brain tumor shifted Jim’s priorities. “When Helen was ill I had to back away from the new Sunday school class and it fell apart.”  Despite the difficulties and Helen’s passing in 2006, Jim found meaning in his work with the Over the Hill Gang. He continued to utilize his home workshop until eventually making the decision to move to Country Wood – into a handicap-accessible home that better suited his needs.

The OTHG faced its own set of challenges as the members aged. Accidents with ladders prompted a shift, moving their base of operations to Ferncliff, where they had access to a well-equipped wood shop. Jim assumed the role of project designer, creating plans for the group to bring to life. Despite a shrinking membership, the OTHG remains a productive group, leaving their mark on Ferncliff with many completed projects visible almost anywhere you look around the camp.

Through it all, Jim emphasizes the invaluable lessons learned – the diverse skills acquired, sincere friendships forged, and the importance of collective effort for a greater cause. His dedication is evident in the tangible impact the OTHG has had on organizations like Vera Lloyd Children’s Home, Pfeifer Camp, Camp Mitchell, Second Presbyterian Church, Wildwood Park for the Arts and Ouachita Children’s Home.

Jim’s commitment continues to drive him, stating, “It gets me out of bed at 6 am on Monday mornings, and you can never beat that. We always have something to do. We get thank you notes sometimes, and that feels good.”

For those beginning or near retirement, Jim imparts some words of wisdom: “Once you retire, it’s not about what you retire from, but what you retire to.” We are immensely grateful that Jim has chosen to retire to a life of service, contributing to his community through Ferncliff and the Over the Hill Gang.

If you find yourself with some time on Monday or Wednesday mornings and would like to join Jim and other volunteers making a difference at Ferncliff, please reach out to me at jgill@ferncliff.org. We welcome new faces to learn from the veterans and we need them to carry the torch forward. Wives, don’t hesitate to nominate your husbands – let’s get them out of the house and into the fulfilling world of service!  Or, maybe better yet,  leave them behind and come yourself!

Along with supporting our other programs, your donations to Ferncliff also help provide materials and equipment for the Over the Hill Gang so they can use their skills to make a positive difference in the community.  Thank you for your gifts to support Ferncliff and this unique outreach ministry.