Madalyn Crocker-Alford, of Niles, volunteers for the Greater Niles Senior Center.

 

What do you do for the senior center?

Whatever they need. I’ve been volunteering for about five years now. Last year I put in over 1,000 hours.

I drive medical for the senior center. That means driving people to doctor’s offices and doctor’s appointments and things like that. I also drive to Shipshewana for the flea market and have taken people to garage sales.

When they need someone to do fundraising, like for the chili supper or the summer picnic, I help with that. I also serve or cook or do whatever they need. I am collecting door prizes for the summer picnic right now. I also get presents for the New Year’s Eve party. We’ve been doing an Easter basket drawing every year for the last couple years and I help with that.

 

What is coming up at the senior center?

We have a senior picnic that we hold every year. This year it is at St. Mark Parish (in Niles). There will be a free lunch for everybody and bingo with prizes. It is from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 25.

 

Who can come to the picnic?

Anyone that is a senior. All they have to do is call the senior center (269) 683-9380 or come to the senior center, 1109 Bell Rd., Niles, to pick up a ticket. It is free.

 

What do you enjoy about volunteering for the senior center?

Helping people that can’t do something for themselves. I drove a bus for 20 years so driving is right up my ally. I get a lot of hugs and kisses.

 

Why is it important to volunteer?

Because we have to learn to be a giving nation instead of a taking nation. Doing things expecting nothing in return pays a lot better dividend than a paycheck.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her as the Volunteer of the Week by calling Craig Haupert, community editor, at (269) 687-7713, or by emailing him at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com.