by Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager
Joe Sepesy and Josh Coty have been honored as the Volunteers of the Month for April, recognizing their dedicated service as Meals on Wheels drivers. Joe began volunteering in 2016, shortly after retiring, and initially delivered meals alongside his wife, Tracey. The “Wednesday Man,” as he became affectionately known, was praised by one of his former clients. She described him as “very caring, kind, and someone who went above and beyond,” and considered him a friend. When Joe heard this story, it brought tears to his eyes, as he too had grown close to this client. Joe was nominated recently for the agency’s Everett Luce award by Carol Milhan Arnosky. Carol says, “Joe Sepesy is one of the kindest, most generous humans that I know. As cliché as it may sound, he really would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.”
After his wife passed away in 2020, Joe continued delivering meals on his own until Josh joined him in 2022. Despite their significant age difference, Joe and Josh make an exceptional team, providing invaluable support on their meal delivery routes. When asked how they knew each other, Joe shared that he had worked with Josh’s grandmother, and their friendship has lasted nearly 40 years. Joe had heard Josh was looking for something to do in his free time, so he suggested delivering meals together. Josh was eager to help, saying, “I had free time and was interested in learning something new.” They began delivering meals on a city route but were later switched to an out-county route. Josh admits, “This route feels like delivering in my own backyard. Some of the clients knew my grandparents and share stories about them with me.”
Elizabeth Baldwin, Nutrition Systems Coordinator, proudly states, “We deliver more than meals. Volunteers are a bridge to the community for clients by delivering smiles with listening ears and caring hearts. Joe and Josh perfectly exemplify this by taking extra time with clients as needed and quickly relaying any concerns to staff ensuring client safety and wellbeing.” Meals on Wheels help older adults live healthier, more nourished lives at home. Clients receive delicious, well-balanced meals delivered by friendly volunteers like Joe and Josh. Whether you need meals temporarily while recovering from illness or injury or on a long-term basis, call (989) 633-3700 to learn more. A Care Coordinator will assess eligibility through a simple home visit, with ongoing follow-ups and reassessments every six months.
Currently, there is a need for Meals on Wheels volunteers in the Greendale area and substitutes at all sites. If you’re available one day a week or bi-weekly, Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 1 pm, and want to serve your community, please call Allison at (989) 633-3741 for more information.
When asked how they would encourage others to volunteer, Josh simply said, “Volunteering is a good time. It makes you feel good.” Joe elaborated, “Volunteering on the front line with clients is essential. It’s not just about delivering a meal, it’s about checking in, building relationships, and welcoming them into your life, as they do the same for you.”
Joe, originally from Pittsburgh, moved to Midland in 1986 for a job with Dow Chemical. He worked as an attorney and retired in 2014. Joe has two sons, a daughter, and one grandchild. He serves on the Board at Helping Hands Dental Center and enjoys playing guitar, motorcycling, and woodworking in his spare time. Josh, a Midland native, enjoys spending time with his family, going to Houghton Lake, driving his Red Chevy Impala, and cheering on Michigan sports teams. Joe jokes, “Josh knows more about sports than anyone I know. I’ve learned a lot from him.”
Thank you, Joe and Josh, for your unwavering dedication to serving older adults in our community. Congratulations on being named Volunteers of the Month!
Make a Difference—Volunteer Today!
Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Senior Services needs caring volunteers to support older adults in Midland County. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a regular schedule, your time can make a world of difference.
By volunteering, you’ll:
- Brighten someone’s day with a friendly visit or helping hand
- Provide essential transportation for older adults who need a lift
- Deliver hot, nutritious meals and a warm smile to those in need
Ready to make an impact? Sign up today! Visit SeniorServicesMidland.org/volunteer to fill out a contact form, or call Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer and Community Outreach Manager, at 989-633-3741.
“Help one another, there’s no time like the present and no present like the time.” ~ James Durst. Your kindness can change lives—join our trusted team of volunteers today!
