Our People Matter

Volunteer

Jeff Perrier

Fallingwater Volunteer

Some destinations are worth the long haul!

A semi-retired structural engineer with a focus on doing structural designs for architects, Jeff Perrier couldn’t wait to volunteer at Fallingwater as soon as he retired from full-time employment. Even though that means commuting from his residence in Jamestown, North Carolina!

As an Ask-Me Guide at “the View,” (the overlook area where people observe the house from afar and have their photos taken), Jeff especially enjoys talking with architecture students as they discover the site.

How did you become involved with Fallingwater and what motivates you to stay involved? Growing up in Pittsburgh, I have admired Frank Lloyd Wright and particularly Fallingwater since my early teens.

My career was focused on doing structural designs for architects and I have had the honor of working for several well-known architects including Aaron Green and Robert A. M. Stern. I still have family ties in Pittsburgh, so I resolved to volunteer at Fallingwater the moment I retired from full-time employment.

What has been most challenging or rewarding about volunteering?

Most challenging is the logistics of traveling from North Carolina. Everything is rewarding, but I really enjoy getting into varied conversations with such diverse groups of visitors.

Tell us about your favorite volunteer experience at Fallingwater.

I have had a number of potential favorites, but probably the best are in-depth conversations with prospective students of architecture.

What advice do you have for someone who is considering volunteering?

Learn everything you can, and enjoy meeting people.

What do you do when you’re not volunteering with Fallingwater?

Mostly music, focused on choral singing. Still working contract jobs and caring for three houses.