(“Stories From the Road…Stories of the Heart” is about the personal experiences of over 200 volunteer drivers across America and how the simple act of driving someone in need touches their own hearts)
As a working woman in the early 1990’s, I had the pleasure of serving a variety of people in the Knoxville area through project LIVE. The Volunteer Coordinator then was a wonderful lady named “Mary Ann.” She eventually set me up with “Ann,” a funny spinster who began calling me directly when she needed groceries, banking or medicines. After a few years, Ann moved into a nursing home and my job situation changed, so I quit volunteering for a time. Our two daughters, named after their great grandmothers, were part of the reason I began volunteering again. I believe that I cannot expect our children to have a heart for service, or a heart for our senior citizens, unless we teach them to. And the only way to teach them is by example
Fast forwarding to 2002 and I began volunteering again – this time with our girls in the backseat, And the most delightful thing has happened – not only do I get the privilege of driving “Mary Ann” (that same volunteer coordinator who helped so many people long ago)- I get to see her smile when my daughters give her a hug good-bye.
The best part about being a volunteer driver? Giving Mary Ann and others like her the chance to stay independent for as long as they’re able. And giving my children the chance to develop a heart for service.
Bonnie Marret
www.livingsolutionsforseniors.org
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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