Meals-on-Wheels Celebrates "People in Action"
Volunteer awarded for Selfless Service during National Volunteer Week

During this year's National Volunteer Week, April 10-16, Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties honored the organization's dedicated community of volunteers who tackle the task of delivering meals to 725 clients each day, five days a week. This is but one of the countless stories behind those that make Meals-on-Wheels a continuing success. This year's theme, "Celebrating People in Action," appropriately applies to those determined individuals like Sherri Rodriguez of Alvarado.

Sherri, a native of Alvarado, has always been involved in her local community. Today, as a volunteer and the director of senior services at the Alvarado Senior Center, she definitely has a heart for the elderly.
 
Sherri began volunteering over ten years ago, filling in on an "as needed basis," when she worked as a home health professional. Then, an opportunity opened at the senior center, and she took on the role of directing the activities there, as well as overseeing the Meals-on-Wheels volunteers. On her own time, she recruits new volunteers, trains and advocates for the organization. "I thoroughly enjoy working with the seniors," she said. "And, feel it my duty to get others involved in this wonderful program."

"Sherri, like many of our volunteers, personifies this year’s National Volunteer Week theme, 'Celebrating People in Action,' said Amy Jackson, director of development. "This can be seen when she speaks to others about Meals-on-Wheels, and her concern for those we serve."

When asked about the award, she humbly said: "I am speechless, and truly honored to be recognized for my efforts." 

Meals-on-Wheels serves more than 725 people on a daily basis with the help of people from the local communities. "Volunteers are essential for our program to be successful," adds Ms. Jackson. "Without the ongoing dedication of volunteers, we would not be able to impact the lives of the elderly, disabled, and their families. "Thank you for the invaluable service you provide to our homebound clients!"

Meals-on-Wheels Celebrates "People in Action"
Volunteer awarded for Selfless Service during National Volunteer Week

During this year's National Volunteer Week, April 10-16, Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties honored the organization's dedicated community of volunteers who tackle the task of delivering meals to 725 clients each day, five days a week. This is but one of the countless stories behind those that make Meals-on-Wheels a continuing success. This year's theme, "Celebrating People in Action," appropriately applies to those determined individuals like Marion Reynolds of Waxahachie.

Marion always knew that when she retired she wanted to volunteer. Retiring from teaching, Meals-on-Wheels was the right "fit" for her, as she heart for her local community and the elderly.
 
Marion began volunteering many years ago, and continues to be an advocate for the organization. "I thoroughly enjoy delivering," she said. "And, feel it my duty to get others involved and aware of the needs of our homebound elderly."

In addition to her weekly route, Marion has served as a trustee on the Meals-on-Wheels Board, being one of the first to represent Ellis County. She has also chaired several of the organization's special events, helping raise over $50,000. "I cannot think of a better organization to work with than Meals-on-Wheels," she states. "I am truly honored to be recognized for my efforts."

"Marion, like many of our volunteers, personifies this year's National Volunteer Week theme, 'Celebrating People in Action,' said Amy Jackson, director of development. "This can be seen when Marion speaks to others about her route, and her concern for those we serve."

In addition to her Meals-on-Wheels work, Marion enjoys spending time with her husband, family and friends. She also spends time working with her husband "dabbling" in antiques, volunteering for other worthwhile organizations, and travelling.   

Meals-on-Wheels serves more than 725 people on a daily basis with the help of people from the local communities. "Volunteers are essential for our program to be successful," adds Ms. Jackson. "Without the ongoing dedication of volunteers, we would not be able to impact the lives of the elderly, disabled, and their families. "Thank you for the invaluable service you provide to our homebound clients!"

For over 15 years, June McLaughlin has dedicated much of her time and energy to the Godley community by volunteering with Meals-on-Wheels. Not only has June been a long-time volunteer, but she has worked to recruit and schedule the Godley volunteers for their routes each week for many years. June was also one of the people who helped get Meals-on-Wheels started in Godley years ago. On Sunday February 27, a reception was held in June’s honor at her church in Godley. We hope this small gesture can convey at least a portion of our gratitude for June’s dedication to the program over the years.

THANK YOU June! Your dedication is greatly appreciated.

Recently, the Ennis area was in need of an additional route as a result of the increase in need, and Ennis I.S.D. came to the rescue. In January, Meals-on-Wheels was able to start route 13 in Ennis thanks to the graciousness of Ennis I.S.D. employees, who were willing to take on route 13 Monday through Friday! Over thirty employees have stepped up to help deliver meals. We could NOT have started this new route without their help. 

We would especially like to thank Dr. Barbara Qualls, Superintendent of Ennis I.S.D., for allowing staff to be a part of serving the Ennis community, and Kathy Willingham, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent, for coordinating all the Ennis I.S.D. volunteers. 

THANK YOU, Ennis I.S.D.! Without you we could not serve the "children of yesterday" in our communities!