Charles Reist’s Photography Captured His Adventurous Life

After 30 years in the banking industry, Charles Reist pictured a retirement full of exploration and adventure. He had worked hard to earn the blank date book with endless possibilities. Armed with his charismatic personality that allowed him to make friends with anyone he met, he embarked on his next 30 years—as a traveler who visited all 50 states and nearly 50 countries.

Charles was not just a tourist. He immersed himself in the culture, took in all the sites, enjoyed local culinary delicacies and built friendships with everyone he encountered. He credits these adventures to Friendship Force International, a non-profit cultural global exchange organization with the mission to promote peace and good will by bringing people together through educational and informational journeys. Started by Jimmy Carter in 1977, the group brings avid travelers together under the spirit of connection. Local families host Friendship Force travelers, introduce them to the culture and guide the itinerary, do things with the guests or schedule excursions and activities for the traveler.

Charles’ first Friendship Force trip was to Spain where he stayed with a host family and enjoyed their home cooked meals. In Romania, Charles stayed with a mother and son for a week. They got to be such good friends; Charles was later invited to the son’s wedding – which he attended. In Japan, he met a local woman while asking where he could get English-language news. Without being asked, the kind woman bought him an English newspaper every morning for the duration for his trip. For each adventure, Charles also brings a gift from his hometown as a token of appreciation.

“It’s a great organization that not many people know about – but there is one here in the Harrisburg area (Friendship Force of Greater Harrisburg),” described Charles. “I’ve had some of my greatest experiences through these trips – it is a neat way to see the world!”

Today, as a resident at Ecumenical Retirement Community, Charles proudly shows off the map of all his adventures that is displayed prominently in his apartment. With push-pins indicating the sites seen, the map is a show-stopping conversation starter.

When asked which trip was a favorite, he couldn’t nail down just one but did recommend if anyone would have an opportunity to take an African safari, they would not be disappointed.

“Seeing the animals up close, you’ll never forget it.”

When reflecting on places he wishes he could have seen, Charles quickly answered Peru.

While international travel quickly became a passion after retirement, he never forgot the beauty that is right here in the United States. Retirement also unlocked a talent for photography. He is a published photographer, sharing the beautiful moments in time he captured of the white sands of Sarasota’s Siesta Key Beach to the historic streets of Charleston and Savannah. His photography, focused on landscapes and architecture, preserves the simple scene that he once saw through the lens for others to enjoy.

Reflecting back on decades of travel, Charles adventurous spirit is filled with gratitude.

“Of all the trips I’ve done, I have never had a bad experience,” smiled Charles.

Meet more residents like Charles

The life of adventure doesn’t stop at Ecumenical Retirement Community, it’s celebrated! Each resident comes to Ecumenical following long careers, raising families, contributing to their communities, or like Charles, also seeing the world. Plan a personalized visit to meet fellow residents who share your or your loved one’s zest for life!