Louis Stennis, of Niles, is a retired postal worker who volunteers with several local organizations, including the Niles branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People as well as Niles’ Franklin AME Church.

How do you help out with the NAACP?

Every year for their community fellowship breakfast I have a black history display, which has some black history stamps from the post office and some posters.

How long have you been helping them out with this now?

For more than five years now.

What made you want to help out with the NAACP?

I thought that people would want to see the display I had. Instead of keeping it for myself, I wanted other people to see it and enjoy it too.

What makes you keep coming back to help?

I enjoy showing my work. Hopefully I can inspire someone else to pick it up as a hobby.

What else do you help out with?

I also take pictures of people and things like during our church (Franklin AME) events.

Is there any other volunteer work you do with your church?

Yeah. We have a transitional house for ladies when they get out of [of prison]. We give them some time to try and get themselves together. I oversee that.

How long have you helped out with that?

At least five years.

What made you get involved?

[Niles City Councilmember] Georgia Boggs asked me if I could give them a hand. She works with them too.

What is the most rewarding thing you get out the program?

It gives young people a second chance. It is difficult out here, so this gives them a second chance to get themselves together, get an education and try stay on a good foot.

Is there anything else you volunteer with around the area?

I work the polls every year, out in Milton Township. I have been doing that for more than 10 years.

Is there anything you want to say to encourage people to volunteer around the community?

If you have been blessed, you should give back others.

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