by Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager

Jeff and Judy Fales are Senior Services’ Volunteers of the Month for May for their outstanding service as Meals on Wheels drivers in Sanford. “They are wonderful folks” states Dawn Powell, Sanford Center Site Manager. Dawn adds, “They are always so friendly and caring.”

Meals on Wheels drivers constitute the largest group within our volunteer ranks. There are approximately 168 active Meals on Wheels drivers. There are 21 Meals on Wheels routes throughout Midland County and meals are delivered Monday through Friday. These volunteers do more than just deliver a meal – they bring friendly smiles and are an outside contact – something very much appreciated by the clients they serve.

The Fales have been serving as Meals on Wheels volunteers since December of 2019 and have over 860 volunteer hours between them. They deliver meals twice a week together and often fill in at the last minute. Dawn explains, “They live close by to the Center, it is both a blessing and a curse. They have been called at the last minute and helped us out when we have been short on volunteer drivers.” In the past, Jeff was a Friendly Visitor/Shopper volunteer, while Judy started as a volunteer in the Center. “We can do this volunteering together,” explains Jeff. He says, “Once we retired we needed to go out and do something.” He encourages others to not sit at home doing nothing after retirement. Judy says, “We saw the need and get satisfaction from helping others.”

The Fales grew up in Midland. They have been married for 47 years, and have 3 children, 4 grandchildren and 1 great grandson. Jeff retired from the Midland County Road Commission and Judy from the City of Midland. They both were equipment drivers during their careers. Jeff enjoys metal detecting and Judy quilts and sews in her spare time. They both enjoy spending time with their grandchildren.

The Meals on Wheels program provides nutritious, well-balanced meals delivered to the older adult’s home by a volunteer. They can find comfort in knowing that a good meal and a friendly face will come with every visit. If you are interested in this service, please call our main number at (989) 633-3700 to get started or if you would like to volunteer as a Meals on Wheels driver, call Allison at (989) 633-3741.

Thank you, Jeff and Judy, for your volunteer spirit. We really appreciate your continued dedication to the mission of Senior Services.

We Need Volunteer Helpers!

Senior Services is in great need of drivers for Meals on Wheels in Greendale and Coleman routes. Routes available M-F from 10 am-1 pm. Mileage is reimbursed and you’ll receive a FREE lunch! Consider joining our Volunteer Team!

We are also in need of:

• Transportation Drivers
  Our volunteer drivers provide “arm to lean on” door-to-door service throughout the entire county of Midland making it easier for older adults to get to doctor’s appointments, a ride to the grocery store, and more.
• Friendly Visitors/Shopping Volunteers
  Visit, call, shop and more for an older adult in need. This is a great opportunity for working people and is flexibly scheduled.

If you choose to volunteer with us, you will be embarking on a rewarding adventure that will have a huge impact on the older adults of Midland County! We hope you’ll consider joining our team of experienced, trusted and valued volunteers.

Visit us at SeniorServicesMidland.org/volunteer to fill out a contact form or call Allison Rossi Utter, Volunteer and Community Outreach Manager, at 989-633-3741.