by Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager

Trailside Activity & Dining Center is proud to celebrate Lila Lawrence as our June Volunteer of the Month! Lila brings joy and warmth to everyone who walks through the doors of Trailside with a friendly face and helping hand.

Lila began her volunteer journey in 2014 at Happy Diners before that center closed, and she’s been a cherished part of the Trailside family ever since. When asked why she started volunteering, Lila shared with a smile, “My husband was a transportation driver first. I like getting out and visiting people. I just can’t sit still!”

Vera Haller, Site Manager at Trailside, says Lila is the heart of the center: “Lila is our welcome person. She walks around greeting and hugging people each day when she arrives. She looks out for new faces, helps them feel comfortable, and lets me know so I can personally introduce myself. Lila makes sure there’s fresh coffee brewing, napkins on every table, and plenty of cream and sugar for everyone. Her attention to these little details makes a big difference—it’s what makes Trailside feel like home.”

Before she was married, Lila worked at the Newberry Dime Store. Her love story is as heartwarming as her volunteer spirit. After three months of writing letters while her future husband was in the service, they finally met in person—and just one week later, they were married! That was 72 years ago. Lila laughs as she recalls, “People didn’t think it would last!” Together, they built a beautiful life with four children, six grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.

In her spare time, Lila enjoys reading, working on jigsaw puzzles, solving word searches, and playing sudoku.

The Trailside Activity & Dining Center, managed by Vera Haller, is one of five vibrant Senior Services centers in Midland County. It’s a welcoming space for older adults to gather, share meals, socialize, and enjoy activities like weekly line dancing, lively card games, and Wednesday BINGO. Volunteers like Lila play a vital role in creating this warm and engaging community.

If you’re interested in volunteering, we’d love to have you! Contact Allison at 989-633-3741. For more information about the services offered by Senior Services, call 989-633-3700.

Thank you, Lila, for your kindness, dedication, and contagious energy. You truly embody the spirit of community!

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 – 10 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 – 2 Females, 2 Males Needed & Shoppers – 1 Needed in Coleman
  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
  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.

WELCOME New Volunteers
Kaylee Colvin
Kathy Diebold
Elise Ingalla
Margie Mettert
Sue Sharp