Celebrating Global Volunteer Month: A Heartfelt Thank You to our Meals on Wheels Volunteers

Merriam-Webster defines a volunteer as, “a person who voluntarily expresses a willingness to undertake a service.” However, at Meals on Wheels chapters all across the country, the definition of a volunteer takes on so many defining characteristics: meal delivery driver, confidant, humanitarian, and most importantly, a friend. This month, we honor and celebrate the hundreds of Meals on Wheels volunteers who make a difference in the lives of our senior neighbors by delivering so much more than a meal.

Celebrating Volunteers All Month Long

April is Global Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate the countless individuals who selflessly dedicate their time to making a difference in their communities. Here at Meals on Wheels South Florida, we are especially grateful for the volunteers who help us deliver nutritious meals, friendly visits, and safety checks to our senior neighbors. Volunteers are truly the backbone of our program, ensuring that vulnerable seniors receive not only the nourishment they need but also the human connection that brightens their day.

From delivering meals with a smile to offering a friendly chat, volunteers are providing so much more than a meal; they offer care, kindness, and a sense of community. Volunteers not only help deliver meals but also assist with various programs such as our Companion Pet Program, which provides pet food to the dogs and cats of our senior clients. Volunteers also provide support with administrative tasks in the office, provide grocery shopping assistance to clients, as well as help with holiday events and special projects throughout the year. 

A National Affiliation

Meals on Wheels South Florida is a proud member of Meals on Wheels America as we deliver programs and services specifically designed to reduce isolation and increase nutrition for older adults. The importance of our programs is evident on the impact we have, both locally and nationally.  “Meals on Wheels has been guided by a single goal since the first known U.S. delivery by a small group of Philadelphia citizens in 1954 – to support our senior neighbors to extend their independence and health as they age. What started as a compassionate idea has grown into one of the largest and most effective social movements in America, currently helping more than 2 million seniors annually in every community in the country.” Source

For the entire month of April, we will honor and highlight the incredible work of our volunteers and encourage others to get involved. Whether you have an hour or an entire day to spare, your contribution can have a lasting impact on the clients we serve. Together, we can continue to ensure that every senior in our community feels loved and cared for.

A Team Effort

Chris Ryan and Vickie Glinton

Vickie Glinton has been a proud employee of Meals on Wheels South Florida for twenty-eight years. Vickie matches volunteers with clients and delivery routes throughout Broward County, and here she poses with Chris Ryan, who delivers to five clients in Tamarac. In early April, Chris returned from vacation and shared with the staff that he was looking forward to seeing his clients again. Meals on Wheels volunteers form a beautiful bond with the seniors on their delivery routes, and we are beyond grateful for their dedication and commitment to our mission.

Get Involved Locally

As we celebrate Global Volunteer Month, consider how you can contribute to organizations like Meals on Wheels South Florida. Whether by donating your time or resources, volunteering is a powerful way to help others and make a lasting difference in your community. Register to volunteer now to make an impact in the lives of Broward County’s older adults, and together we can deliver what our neighbors need most.

Points of Light- Join the Global Movement!

Join us in making a difference during #GlobalVolunteerMonth and beyond! We are committed to planning, doing, and sharing impactful ways to support our communities through volunteerism and civic action.

Learn more at #PointsofLight and take the pledge here.