February Volunteer of the Month — Tara O’Reilly

Tara O'Reilly began volunteering with the City of Columbia in March 2024, several months before officially relocating to Missouri in September.

The move followed her husband's retirement after 20 years as a plastic surgeon in the United States Navy and his transition to a new role at the University of Missouri. Volunteering remotely helped Tara ease into a new community.

Tara does much of her work independently. She collaborates across City departments to write spotlight articles, sharing stories that highlight how individuals contribute to Columbia. This role has enabled her to connect with and gain a deeper understanding of the city's community life.

Originally from Alaska, Tara has lived in Seattle, San Diego, Dallas and Carlsbad before settling in Columbia. Volunteering has consistently been her way to connect, learn and make a meaningful contribution.

Her experience includes leadership roles with animal rescue organizations in San Diego and Dallas. These experiences reinforced her belief that volunteering benefits both the community and personal growth.

Outside of her volunteer work, Tara enjoys fiber arts, weightlifting, reading mysteries and nonfiction, and exploring Columbia.

Her advice to others is simple: try volunteering. There's flexibility, opportunity and something for everyone.