Community Difference Makers

Tara Miller

Nominated by Linda Reed

by Alisha Yocum

With her warm smile and welcoming demeanor, it is easy to see how Tara Miller is making an impact on the community.

Over the years, Miller has worked in a variety of careers, including serving as a kindergarten teacher and working in both a veterinary clinic and a library. However, each of those experiences seems to have led her to what may be her true calling: helping seniors. Today, Miller serves as the Coordinator for the Thurmont Senior Center.

Linda Reed is a frequent visitor to the Senior Center. “Under her [Miller’s] leadership, she has immensely increased offerings for those 55+,” Reed said. “Her background in education, as well as her knowledge of the community, is well utilized.”

With all the planned activities, it is no surprise that seniors enjoy spending time at the center. Miller says she has always had a heart for helping others, and she loves seeing how much the seniors appreciate even the smallest touches—whether it is holiday decorations, a special event, or a new activity. One of her goals is to ensure that there is something happening at the center every single day.

Some activities include special programs like “Manicure Mondays.” Miller says those moments are especially meaningful because many seniors have never experienced something as simple as getting a manicure. Watching them proudly show off their freshly painted nails and seeing the joy it brings them makes the effort worthwhile.

But Miller’s passion for helping others isn’t just for her fellow humans.

She also launched Jellybean Rescue in Rocky Ridge, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating cats. The rescue currently cares for approximately 35 cats and kittens. The organization assists with trapping stray and feral cats, and every animal is spayed or neutered and vaccinated before being adopted into indoor-only homes.

Miller says the rescue has been supported by an incredible network of local donors who step in to provide food, supplies, and assistance whenever needed.

There is a famous quote by E. B. White that states, “If I have made a difference in one other soul, then my life has been well lived.” Miller says that philosophy has guided her throughout her life. From standing in front of kindergarten classrooms to helping seniors, she has always wanted to help others and show kindness.

Miller believes there is an innate desire within all of us to help others, but sometimes people simply do not know how.

She encourages others to help in whatever way they can—even if it is something small, like donating a bag of used towels to the cat rescue.

And, of course, you never know when a simple gesture, even a smile, might make an impact on someone’s day.

To learn more about the Thurmont Senior Center visit thurmontseniorcenter.org. For Jellybean Rescue, follow their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/JellyBeanRescue19.

Tara Miller is making a difference serving the seniors through Thurmont Senior Center and as owner of Jellybean Rescue. Here she is posing with cats from her rescue.