by Tina Podboy Laughner, Volunteer & Outreach Manager
Our September Volunteer of the Month is Marty McGuire for his work as a Meals on Wheels volunteer. Marty was one of many people who answered our plea for help at the beginning of the pandemic when we were unsure of our volunteer situation. He then came on board in June of 2020 and has been delivering meals ever since. Why did he offer to help in the beginning of the pandemic? Marty said he understood that current volunteers might not be able to continue and he knew he could help. He says he continues to volunteer because he realizes it is a valuable and important service – his mother received Meals on Wheels in Mt. Pleasant. “There’s the obvious value in the food itself but also a lot of value in people looking in on the clients – it gives them that face to face contact,” he says, “I like giving back and seeing the joy on people’s faces. It’s good to interact with people.” Michele Burkett, Food Service Coordinator, says, “He is a great teacher for new drivers. He has on many occasions even while doing his own grocery shopping answered a call for an open route and come running in to save the day!!! He understands the importance of our seniors needing to have their meals. He will even text me on his off days offering to help if he’s needed. Amazing man!”
Marty worked for the City of Midland for 30 years in the Department of Public Services eventually becoming the director. He then was the director of the Dow Gardens for seven years. Marty and his wife have five children between them and five grandchildren. His other volunteer activities include being on the boards of the Food Pantry and the Downtown Development Authority and Midland Blooms.
The Meals on Wheels program provides nutritious, well-balanced tasty meals delivered to an older adult’s home by a friendly volunteer just like Marty! If you are interested in this service, call Senior Services at (989) 633-3700. If you are interested in becoming a Meals on Wheels driver – one of the MOST rewarding volunteer experiences ever – call Tina at 633-3741!
Thank you so much, Marty, for stepping up to the plate in our time of need! Thank you for your continued dedication and congratulations on being chosen as the Volunteer of the Month!
