Today, the 56-year-old Lake Charles resident helps address the needs of seniors with his chair exercise classes that begin with a prayer. He’s also collecting new socks and underwear for the homeless through Hoops for a Cause. Donations are coming in from seniors in Lake Charles and Westlake and from a Westlake Church, but anyone can help.

He has a heart for those who feel invisible, he said, and uses his training to make a difference.

“I’ve been teaching chair and breathing exercises for about seven years,” he said.

He began by volunteering and now is paid a small stipend. Helping others has helped him mentally, physically and spiritually, and he’s paying it forward. He deals with some disabilities, but refuses to stop engaging in community activities, remembering that his mother’s dementia was quite likely accelerated by inactivity and isolation.

“It’s so important to engage with others, give to others in any way you can and take care of your body,” Victor said.

He is president of Hoops for a Cause and will be collecting socks and underwear at the University Rec Center and a senior gathering place in Lake Charles for The Potter’s House, a homeless shelter for women and children, and The Lord’s House, a homeless shelter for men. New items only. Call 913-908-1031 for more information.