Norma Folk, of Vandalia, is a long-time volunteer at the Cass County Council on Aging. COA officials said that she is a dedicated and beloved volunteer.

How long have you been a volunteer at the COA?

I’ve been a volunteer for about 30 years. It goes faster than you think. I usually volunteer here between two or three times a week for five-hour sessions.

What do you do at the COA?

I mostly work in the dining area, but I’ll do anything where they need me. I tend to get the lunches ready, and when it’s time to serve, I send [the lunches out] and things like that.

How did you get involved with the COA?

My husband had passed away and I needed something to do to get out and do things. Since I don’t have any family in the area, only close friends, I thought [the COA] would be a good way to do that.

Why do you like volunteering at the COA?

You get to meet a lot of nice people and help them with things that they don’t understand that we have here, like daycare and assistance to normal living.

Why do you think it is important for people to volunteer at the COA?

The COA is always out in the public, and we like to help people when we can. The COA does a lot in the community.

How would you encourage others to volunteer?

It’s a good way to meet people and to help people in the area.