by Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager
Senior Services is proud to recognize Julie Hays as our Volunteer of the Month for July! Julie has been a dedicated Meals on Wheels volunteer since the mid-1990s, bringing not just meals—but compassion, warmth, and connection—to older adults across Midland County.
Originally from Lincoln, Nebraska, Julie moved to Midland in 1990 with her husband, Mike, for his job. After a few years in Texas, the couple returned—and so did Julie’s commitment to Meals on Wheels. She recalls the improvements to the program over the years, saying, “When we moved back from Texas, there was a new building on Dublin. It had a garage and was just great! I used to pick up meals from Happy Diners, and the stairs were a challenge. The new building let us use carts and stay out of the weather. It was heaven!” Julie has faithfully served the Greenhill route for all these years. Summers often found her with her children in tow, instilling the value of service in them from a young age. In recent years, her husband Mike has become her delivery partner, making it a family affair once again.
Julie and Mike recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, enjoying a year full of celebration. They have a son, a daughter, and a beloved granddaughter. Throughout her career, Julie taught school, worked as a substitute teacher, and tutored. She fills her spare time with reading, swimming, gardening, and jigsaw puzzles. She also enjoys volunteering at her church, with P.E.O., and in her local garden club.
Elizabeth Baldwin, Nutrition Systems Coordinator, shared, “Julie is very deserving of the Volunteer of the Month honor. She genuinely cares about the people she serves. Her many years of service are a true testament to her commitment. She’s always willing to step in and cover extra shifts when needed. Julie is an absolute joy to have on our volunteer team.”
Julie reflects on her time with Meals on Wheels, saying, “I volunteer to provide a basic need—feeding people—but honestly, I get more out of it than the clients probably do. Seeing them is the best part. Some love to chat, and it’s such an important role making sure everyone is doing okay.”
The Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious, well-balanced meals planned by a Registered Dietitian. There’s no income requirement and no waitlist—services are available for both short and long-term needs. Volunteers often serve as the only daily contact for many clients, offering not just a meal, but a friendly face and a wellness check. Deliveries typically begin between 10-10:30 am and take about two hours. Senior Services currently runs 21 weekday routes, reaching older adults countywide.
We are so grateful for Julie’s compassionate spirit and decades of service. Congratulations, Julie, and thank you for all you do for the older adults of Midland County!
To learn more about Senior Services programs, call (989) 633-3700. Interested in becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer? Call Allison at (989) 633-3741.
WELCOME New Volunteers
Colin Campbell
Sarah Galt
Tammy Heppner
Jim Perry
Sarah Wildstein
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
Current Volunteer Openings:
Transportation Drivers – 8 Needed
Help older adults stay independent by driving them to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store, or other essential outings. You’ll provide an “arm to lean on” and peace of mind. Routes available in AM, PM or All Day.
Friendly Visitors – 3 Female, 2 Males Needed & Shoppers – 1 Female in Coleman area
Spend just 1-2 hours a week visiting, calling, or running errands for an older adult. This is a flexible opportunity—perfect for working professionals!
Senior Safety Team – 2 Needed
Assist older adults with minor home repairs to improve safety. Requires repair skills, own tools and transportation; mileage reimbursed, 5-10 hours monthly.
Meals on Wheels Drivers – 1 Needed for the Greendale Route & Every Other Tuesday Downtown Midland route
Deliver meals Monday–Friday from 10 AM–1 PM. You’ll receive mileage reimbursement and a free lunch!
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.
