by Tina Podboy Laughner, Volunteer & Outreach Manager
Todd Beard
Todd Beard has been volunteering for Senior Services for three years both as a transportation driver and as a member of Team Handyman. He has been chosen as our Volunteer of the Month for April. Todd heard about our volunteer opportunities from a friend who volunteers with Team Handyman. He originally signed up for that opportunity but quickly added transportation. Trish Brown, Transportation Manager, says, “Todd was not hesitant at all during COVID to come forward and commit to driving a whole day. He is very conscientious and a great communicator. Clients call to tell me how polite, kind and nice he is.” Why does he volunteer? Todd says, “I enjoy interfacing with the clients, as we get to know each other during the brief time we are driving to an appointment or as I complete work in their homes. It’s very rewarding work and I am thankful for the opportunity to serve my community.” Kris Recker, Handyman Manager, says, “Todd is someone I can count on to complete handyman jobs efficiently and professionally. I received a very nice letter (from a client) that stated ‘Todd did an outstanding job in giving us the needed grab bars which makes our house much safer for us … We wanted someone who had the knowledge, experience, and tools to correctly install the bars.’ Todd definitely possessed all of those.”
Todd and his wife came here from West Virginia in 1981 and have been married for almost 40 years. They have three children. Todd retired from Dow in 2017, working as a project director and living all over the world during his career. Since retiring, Todd enjoys traveling, remodeling projects, woodworking, gardening and bicycling. He says, “I thoroughly enjoy both volunteer roles… I typically drive one day each week and am able to help 4 to 5 handyman clients each month… Senior Services is certainly something special.”
Transportation Drivers use agency vehicles to take older adults to medical appointments within Midland County. Drivers must have a good driving record and a kind and courteous attitude toward our clients. We offer “door to door” service with an arm to lean on! Team Handyman volunteers do small tasks to make clients’ homes more safe and secure – installing smoke detectors, grab bars, fixing locks, etc. If you are in need of any of the programs and services that Senior Services offers, call (989) 633-3700. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, call Tina at (989) 633-3741.
Thank you, Todd, for your dedication to the older adults of Midland County, especially during this time, and congratulations on being chosen as Volunteer of the Month!
