Dale Pallas, of Dowagiac, has served as a longtime volunteer with the Cass County COA. He is currently serving as the executive secretary of the organization’s board of directors.

 

How long have you been involved with the COA?

This is going on my 10th year with the COA. I started as a volunteer, and I was soon elected on the board. I’ve been serving on the board for about the last nine years, so about the whole time I’ve been connected with them.

I had heard about the organization, and the wonderful things that they did sounded like something I could do. With my physical disability, being limited with my cane and not being able to lift and stand for long period of times, I’m limited with what I can do. After I had to retire from my job in 2004, due to being on my feet all the time, I was really lost because people have always been part of my life…it’s just nature for me to help someone else.

 

What are your responsibilities as a board member?

Like any other board, we oversee all the activities of the [organization]. I’ve served on many different committees with the board; this year I’m the executive secretary of the executive board.

I also serve on the finance committee of the COA.

 

Are there any other activities you help with?

For years, I’ve always done the Cass County Fair evenings. I go over there from 5 p.m. until closing, and run the booth over there. I’ve done that for six or seven years. It’s a nice opportunity to meet and greet people…I’ll volunteer for whatever — I’m kind of on an on-call basis. If something comes up or someone doesn’t show up or something like that, they call me and I’ll be there.

The COA is a very important part of my life. I’m going to miss part of it, because this is my last year on the board. We get three, three-year terms and then they kick you off. But, except for the board, I plan to continue with what I’m doing as long as I can.

 

Is there anything you want to say to encourage people to volunteer?

I’ll encourage anybody, if you’re sitting around and you don’t have anything to do, get off the coach and go volunteer. Whether it’s at your church or something at the school or any activity that might be in town, I’m just sure somebody could use you.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her by calling Craig Haupert, community editor, at (269) 687-7720, or by email at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com.