Bobbi’s Angels Give Back Day at New Horizons
Working Up a Sweat Was Never So Rewarding
Sometimes, the most rewarding days leave you a little dirty, a little tired, and a whole lot more connected to your community.
That connection took on even greater meaning when Bobbi's Angels rolled up their sleeves for a Give Back Day at New Horizons in New Caney. Before volunteers headed off to their projects, Executive Director Darbie Lindsey shared a special piece of history: Bobbi Bodenhamer, whose legacy inspired Bobbi's Angels, had once served on the New Horizons Board of Directors. It was a touching full-circle moment, bringing Bobbi's legacy of service back to an organization she had personally helped support.
From hauling gravel and organizing merchandise to tending gardens, volunteers tackled projects that would make a meaningful difference for an organization serving neurodiverse adults.
But somewhere between the wheelbarrows, garden beds, and resale shop shelves, volunteers discovered that the work was only part of the story.
A Little Sweat Goes a Long Way
A Greater EMC Chamber member for 26 years, New Horizons provides opportunities for neurodiverse adults to develop life skills, build social connections, and participate in meaningful activities.
With several projects needing attention, Bobbi's Angels divided into groups and got to work.
Inside the resale shop, volunteers reorganized merchandise, shelving, and storage spaces. Outside, others spread gravel in preparation for incoming storage containers, maintained garden beds, and prepared additional growing spaces.
Volunteer John Camacho summed up the experience:
"Today's been an amazing experience being here with Bobbi's Angels to give back to neurodiverse adults here in the New Caney area and the surrounding areas as well."
The projects were practical, but their purpose went well beyond property maintenance.
Behind the Resale Shop, Something Remarkable Is Growing
One of the day's biggest discoveries was the expansive horticulture program tucked behind the New Horizons resale shop.
Under the guidance of Horticulture Trainer Harry Field, rows of garden beds flourish with vegetables, herbs, and other plants tended by staff, program participants, and volunteers.
Harry's knowledge and enthusiasm are remarkable, but his motivation is surprisingly simple. He wants people outside enjoying the sunshine, especially those who might otherwise spend much of their days indoors.
The gardens provide opportunities for hands-on learning, responsibility, and the satisfaction of growing something from the ground up.
And what they grow is impressive.
New Horizons produces more than 30 different tea blends using medicinal herbs from its gardens. Harry shared a memorable story about Mellow Yellow, a tea blend that someone experiencing significant anxiety had used before later securing a new job.
While individual experiences vary, the story illustrated Harry's enthusiasm for the program and the personal meaning he finds in its work.
For volunteers maintaining garden beds and preparing new growing spaces, learning about the horticulture program brought greater meaning to their efforts.
There's Something Here for Everyone
New Horizons Executive Director Darbie Lindsey captured the organization's philosophy perfectly:
"The best part of what we do is there is something in it for everyone."
Whether participants are developing everyday skills, working in horticulture, building relationships, or contributing to activities connected to the resale shop, New Horizons recognizes that everyone brings different abilities and interests.
That same spirit carried into the Give Back Day. Some volunteers organized merchandise, while others tackled physically demanding outdoor projects. Different strengths came together for one shared purpose.
And along the way, volunteers connected with the people whose lives are touched by New Horizons.
From Resale Shop Customer to Personal Connection
For volunteer Amanda McMurray, the experience offered an entirely new perspective on a familiar place.
Amanda already enjoyed shopping at the New Horizons resale shop, but volunteering introduced her to the mission behind the merchandise.
She learned more about the organization's work helping neurodiverse adults develop life and social skills and had the opportunity to work alongside some of the people it serves.
"My experience has been awesome," Amanda shared.
One interaction stood out: "Met an amazing guy named Kyle."
That simple comment captured something special about the day. Amanda arrived knowing New Horizons as a place to find great deals. She left with a deeper understanding of its purpose and a personal connection she wouldn't soon forget.
The Work Gets Done. The Connections Stay.
By day's end, the results were visible throughout the property. The resale shop was better organized, gravel had been spread, and garden spaces were maintained and prepared for future planting.
But the experience offered something beyond completed projects.
Volunteers gained a greater appreciation for New Horizons, its dedicated staff, and the people it serves. Their time and effort demonstrated what happens when community relationships turn into meaningful action.
Sometimes, making a difference simply starts with showing up and being willing to get your hands dirty.
Ready to Organize Your Own Give Back Day?
Your business or team can make a difference right here in the EMC region. Consider organizing a Give Back Day with a local nonprofit who supports our business community. A few hours of teamwork can provide valuable support while strengthening relationships and connecting your team to the community. Learn more here: gemcchamber.com/give-back/
Chamber Members Who Participated:
- Accurate Home & Commercial Services
- Community Resource Credit Union
- Homewood Suites Kingwood Parc
- IMG Insurance – Bill Hildebrandt
- Insperity
- Mtz & Associates
- Precision Restoration of Texas
- Shawn McDowell – United American Mortgage Corporation
- Southside Bank
Want to attend the next Bobbi’s Angels day?
Contact Tracie Kamenoff, Director of Events & Marketing
Tracie@gemcchamber.com | 281-354-0051
Greater EMC Chamber events are proudly supported by funding from East Montgomery County Improvement District's Community Development Grant.