Don't Retire, Get Inspired: One Couple's Extraordinary Journey to Make a Difference

by Dick Nogaj

For Dick Nogaj, retirement was a chance to pursue his lifelong dream. With his wife Florence, the couple successfully launched four not-for-profit organizations in Illinois and Florida to help... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1606150219
• ISBN13: 9781606150214
• Release Date: January 2010
• Publisher: Winepress Publishing
• Length: 221 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.2" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

One in a million...

Hello... I am one of the superstars in this book. My family and I met Mr. and Mrs. Nogaj back in 2002. We read a flyer about the Jubilation project and went into their office to find out how to start the process in getting a home. Then a couple of weeks later I ended up working for them as their receptionist. If someone would had told me then, where I would be NOW, I probably would not have believed them. It has been a long journey and I thank GOD, for bringing Mr. and Mrs. Nogaj into our lives. They are more than friends--I see them as mentors. I take to heart what they tell me and listen to what they say. I love you and May God Bless You! In addition, Thank You for all the wonderful gifts of life, you have shown us.

How many signs do you need?

How many signs do you need to make you believe that you are meant for greater things? How many people have to come into your life for you to act on what your soul has been telling you is the right thing to do? It is time for all of us to be inspired by Dick Nogaj's biographical account of the signs and the people along his way who led him and his wife, Florence, to make a real difference in the lives of so many fellow human beings. I dare anyone to read this book and not be inspired to be a better, more actively involved person. As Dr. Robinson notes in the Foreword to the book, I too initially thought I would scan the book the night I bought it (after hearing Dick Nogaj speak earlier that evening in Ft. Myers). I found myself, however, unable to stop reading - until I neared the end of the book, and then I really did not want to finish - I wanted to know more about this journey. How could this one little book cover so many years of hard work and accomplishment? Dick and Florence - you need to write more! I look forward to reading about the next chapter in your lives! Keep inspiring others!

Perseverence

I knew a little about Dick Nogaj, a fellow engineer, before reading this and had expected to learn a little more about his work with DuPage Habitat for Humanity and the farm workers in Immokalee. What a pleasant surprise it was to become engulfed in a novel that I just couldn't put down until reading the very last page. He dispelled the myth that engineers can't write. Anyone interested in social justice, retired or not, will be inspired by the journey of Dick with his wife, Florence, as they face obstacle after obstacle in extending a hand to those less fortunate. If you want to put your faith into action Dick's story might just be what you need to persevere. Although the best laid plans can - and did - go astray, Dick shows how he drew strength and joy from relationships built with others involved in the struggle.

Making A Difference With Your LIfe

DON'T RETIRE tells of a unique pursuit of a lifetime dream whose heart and soul is a couple's unparalleled relationship. This story reveals in truly well-written fashion the many complicated facets necessary to realize the goal of making a difference - and prayer is at the center. One sees what can happen in the midst of suburbs of affluence as well as in neighborhoods with dire scarcity of necessities not to mention opportunity.

When you're wondering what's next...

I bought this book for my mom, a retired Baby Boomer, but its message isn't just for retirees but for anyone who feels called to do "more" in the world but isn't sure just what that means. Dick's story is compelling, touching, and honest--this memoir of his work will keep you reading as you wonder how he will continue to meet the challenges thrown up at every turn. I started this book thinking it was just going to be the story of a local Habitat for Humanity affiliate and how it was created, but it turned out to be much, more more. I've bought copies for several friends and will contine to recommend it. A great, uplifting read that will make you want to do more with your own life, too.