Phil Trytko, of Niles, volunteers by serving lunches at the Niles Salvation Army.

 

What do you do at the Salvation Army in Niles?

Well basically I go down there and help serve meals for the people that come in there and eat for lunch.

How long have you been a cook there?

I think going on three years now.

How did you first get involved?

The church I belong to, one Friday a month they help serve lunch down there at the Salvation Army, and I’ve gone down and helped them several times. One of the people there at the Salvation Army asked if I would be interested in coming down one day a week to help cook their meals, so I said, “Sure, why not?” So here I am.

What do you enjoy about it?

The people that are there and talking to the different people. It kind of gives me something to do during the week, to look forward to.

Why do you think it’s important to volunteer?

You’re a member of a community and if you can give part of yourself to that community, I think it benefits not only you but also the community. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, belonging, some sort of a personal fulfillment knowing that you’re doing something good.

Do you do other volunteer work?

Occasionally I help with the church when they do their luncheons, and I’m also a member of the Niles Masonic Lodge. We do some things. We have the child ID program and we participate in the Safe Halloween downtown.

What church do you belong to?

I belong to Holy Trinity Lutheran of Niles.

If people want to get involved and help out at the Salvation Army, how should they do that?

They should contact Jan Nowak. She’s the social worker down there. She can direct them to how they can get involved.

 

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 craig.haupert@leaderpub.com.