WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Former Austin man finds his calling

From the "where are they now?" file comes this report from McKean County.

Roger Austin, an Austin High School student who was the only seven-footer to play in the Northern Tier Boys' Basketball League, is an active volunteer at the SPCA animal shelter in Bradford.

Austin spends an average of six hours per day walking dogs, grooming pets and otherwise assisting.

"I was raised on a farm, milking cows by hand, and I've always loved animals," Austin said.

His path to the SPCA came through the Guidance Center, a psychological support service and counseling agency in McKean County.

Austin was referred to the Guidance Center as the result of alcoholism, according to social worker Ashley Northrop, who made the connection with the SPCA.

"This has proven to be lifechanging work for Roger," Northrop said. "He has a more optimistic outlook on life and is more motivated, with an improved attitude and behavior."

SPCA staffers marvel at Austin's work.

"Roger has become part of our family," said Rhonda Brinker-Monroe. "He has made such a difference with the animals and they seem so much happier when they're with him."

Austin also acknowledges the benefits of his volunteer work.

"It helped me and I like making a difference," he said. "I'm happier and I have real friends. There were no real friends in the beer gardens. That is a bad habit."