For nearly two years, Delores Howard has volunteered as many as 60 hours a month in support of  Melwood’s events team—handling administrative tasks and showing up at community events whenever she’s needed.

Delores knew volunteering was how she wanted to spend her retirement years. What she didn’t anticipate was just how closely connected she would be with Melwood’s mission.

“I was living Melwood’s mission my entire life and didn’t even realize it,” Delores said.

Her connection to supporting people with disabilities began decades earlier, when her teenage son survived a devastating car accident. As he relearned to walk and rebuild his life, Delores found purpose in helping other families through similar challenges. That experience never left her.

Prior to her retirement, Delores began researching organizations to determine the best fit for her volunteer commitment. After learning about Melwood, its mission, and meeting with staff, she knew she found the perfect fit.

“Everyone truly believes in the mission. That’s so seldom,” she said. “Usually people do the job and get paid. But everyone at Melwood is just so committed to what they’re there to do. It’s heartwarming.”

Her advice to others considering volunteering? “If you want to make a difference in your community and in someone’s life—you cannot beat Melwood.”

Interested in volunteering? Contact us to learn how you can get involved.