There is an old saying about “heard it through the grapevine” which has always had the connotation that one “heard it from a friend.” That is exactly what happened to Pat Canada, inner office volunteer over 8 years ago. Pat was already volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, but heard from a friend how much she liked volunteering at MOWMP and thought she would try it out.
Prior to volunteering at Meals on Wheels, Pat worked in the computer industry and was a General Building Contractor. The skills that Pat utilized in that industry have been paramount in her volunteer role in the inner office.
The inner office, as it is called, is the heartbeat of the organization. This is where all the phone calls are received from clients calling in and drivers who may not be able to locate their clients, they sort and organize route sheets for drivers, and help with everything else that comes up.
When asked what do you get out of volunteering at MOWMP, Pat’s response echoes her feeling of what makes volunteering meaningful to her “I’m happy to be part of a community that helps each other. Being able to talk to home delivered meals clients gives me the opportunity to help people get the services they need. People visit the center for communal lunch or classes daily. It gives us all a chance to connect with each other.”
Because MOWMP is always looking for volunteers whether they be in the inner office, sandwich makers, drivers, lunch servers, produce market, kitchen support or special events, Pat knows the importance of volunteering. Her advice to those who are considering volunteering mirrors so many of our volunteers feelings, with the bottom line being: help others.
Pat believes that by volunteering you will meet many members of the community, employees, and fellow volunteers who enjoy helping, being active, connected, and informed. Pat describes her volunteer environment as fun with people from all walks of life. “You will make a lot of new friends and feel like you make a difference in someone else’s life.”
Everyone at MOWMP is very happy that Pat decided to try us out and volunteer. Pat and her dog Dillon, have been making a difference in people’s lives every time she volunteers and we are thankful for both of them!
