Whether preparing and leading weekly Bible studies for middle schoolers, providing meals at a food kitchen or mentoring the incarcerated at The Huntsville Unit prison, 73-year-old Thomas Stream has spent most of his life serving others in the local community. Stream, a resident of Watercrest at Kingwood, finds purpose and fulfillment in using his gifts to make a difference in the lives of others. As soon as his week begins, he’s out the door and on his way to the various organizations and locations where he is needed each day. Since moving into the senior living community four years ago with his wife, he’s only increased his volunteerism and has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.
“Being brought up in a strong Christian home, giving back was such a normal part of life, and doing anything different never occurred to me,” said Stream. “From a young age I learned the importance of giving back and putting my skills to good use. I’ve always looked for opportunities, and I often feel as if I’m led to them. My entire life I’ve enjoyed staying busy and on the go, and that hasn’t changed. My wife and I live in the Villas at Watercrest, and we feel there is a great balance of privacy and connectivity within the community. I feel empowered to increase my volunteerism as I have the ability come and go at my leisure. Having the ability to get out in the community and help others is incredibly rewarding, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else with my time.”
Stream’s week begins with the team at Bible Study Fellowship in Kingwood, an international interdenominational Christian organization that offers structured Bible study for individuals of all ages. Here he leads a group of middle school students on Monday nights for two hours. It’s his acts of service that carry him through the week as he volunteers at the Humble Municipal Court as a Court Volunteer on Tuesdays and leads to his most passionate work with the men serving time at The Huntsville Unit Prison. He has volunteered there for the past 15 years. Stream heads to the prison on Wednesdays from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. where he carries out the duties of chaplain’s assistant, helping teach classes and assist in the spiritual needs of inmates.
“Working in prison ministry is incredibly rewarding and has been one of my greatest joys over the past 15 years,” said Stream. “I began by working with Kairos, which is the largest prison ministry in the world, and it effectively changed my life as I began meeting with the inmates and encouraging them to see the value of their lives and the positive impact they can have on society. In many ways, volunteering in prison ministry is highly contagious, as I can’t imagine what my life would be without crossing paths with the men. This is something that I will continue to do as long as I am able.”
Stream ends his week at Martha’s Kitchen, a local food kitchen where he has volunteered consistently for the past 21 years. The food kitchen serves a five-course meal to nearly 350 people a day. It’s because of this need that Stream continues to return, knowing that many who visit during his Friday shift might not have a meal again until the next day or possibly even longer. Additionally, over the years he has built lasting relationships with those he serves, as well as fellow volunteers. All in all, when it comes to leaving a mark on the world, Stream believes volunteering is the most impactful thing he can do.
“Over the years I have met incredible people and formed lasting relationships that have shaped me and the work I continue today,” said Stream. “I am fortunate to make friends and connections everywhere I serve. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that these connections positively impact so many lives. I recommend that everyone find an opportunity to volunteer locally and make a difference. Not only will you feel good about it, but you will have made a difference in the life of someone else – even if it’s just one person. The key thing is to get out there and try, find something that you’re passionate about and give it a go. Today’s youth have a chance unlike any generation before to make our world a better place, and it’s my hope they get involved.”
“At Watercrest at Kingwood, we are inspired daily by Tom Stream and his commitment to serving others,” said Terri Lowery, executive director of Watercrest at Kingwood. “We are honored to have residents in our community who dedicate themselves to volunteering and going above and beyond to help those in need. We believe in the importance of making our community a better place, and it’s the compassion of individuals like Thomas that make it a reality.”