A special welcome to you, our new volunteer driver. As a volunteer, you have agreed to play what may be the starring role in the "Meals on Wheels" Program. You will have many individuals backstage to support you, but you are the "star" to the public you will be meeting.

   You have assets, which will assure you of success. Among them are a willingness to listen, tact, a sense of humor, pleasing personality, and above all, dependability!

   Though there will be no financial return for your services, the recompense will come from the satisfaction of giving of yourself. You will find that you receive a great deal from these lovely people.

   The goal of all of us in this program is to help the older American to maintain his/her own home in better health and for a longer period of time. Thank you for helping us to achieve this.

   You'll be delivering the main meal of the day to seniors within the community who meet certain criteria, primarily that they don't drive and aren't able to leave home without assistance. Most are lacking a support system of family and have difficulty with meal preparation. You are helping those individuals who are isolated and needing nutritional support the most!

   Our routes are typically 15.20 stops, taking less than 2 hours total, with time at each stop about a minute or two. Essentially, you will be bringing them a meal, but please also be aware of anyone who is in physical distress. As we are often the only contact these people have each day, you may come upon the scene of a medical emergency. If you do, please call 911, then our office so that we might also notify their relatives.

   Be aware that older people often have sensory deficits, i.e., hearing loss, vision dimming, slower ambulatory time, so please allow plenty of time for the recipient to answer the door. Most are familiar with the routine and will be waiting for your arrival with place mat and table service ready!