Meals on Wheels recognized their volunteers with a family-style luncheon at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville on Tuesday, April 14th. It was an opportunity for Meals on Wheels to show their appreciation of the efforts the volunteers put forth all year long delivering meals to clients, assisting in the kitchen and the office staff who help answer phones, process billing and newsletters. “Volunteers are our greatest resource, and we could not reach our mission without the service of these incredible individuals.” stated Joan Vith, Volunteer Manager.
Three corporate volunteer groups, Ahepa, Merrillville; and Crown Point High School, Crown Point were recognized for their 5 years of service to Meals on Wheels delivering meals in their communities. Centier Bank, Whiting, was recognized for their 20 years of service to the Whiting Community. Also, thirty-six volunteers were recognized with the Presidential Service Award which includes a certificate, a signed letter by President Obama, and a bronze pin. This recognition is given to volunteers who donate more than 100+ hours to a non-profit organization. Three volunteers were recognized with the Presidential Service Award achievement of over 250+ hours donated to Meals on Wheels during 2014. They were Doris Galinski, Office Volunteer, James Haag, Vantastic, and Ora Kennedy, driver. The Presidential Service Award for over 250+ hours of service includes a certificate, letter signed by President Obama and a silver pin.
Other honorees were given pins, and gifts to recognize their five, ten, fifteen, twenty, and twenty-five years of service. Phyllis Hudec, recognized for her 30-years of service; and Judy Ahlheit, Ann Daghy, Dorothy King, and Kathy Miller, 35-years were honored with bouquets of flowers, and a donation made in their names to the Legacy Foundation on behalf of Meals on Wheels.
To learn more about joining the volunteers at Meals on Wheels, please contact Joan at (219)-756-3663, or email joan@mownwi.org