Volunteers are at the heart of all we do at Meals on Wheels People. In honor of National Volunteer Week, we’re highlighting several volunteers who make a significant impact in the lives of our older neighbors. Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Larkin.

As someone who has volunteered throughout her life, Deanna Larkin’s decision to spend her retirement giving back to her community made perfect sense. Living two blocks away from Meals on Wheels People, she decided to drop in one day during her daily walk to see if they needed additional hands. Fast forward 10 years, and she’s inspiring others to join her! 

“It’s very rewarding work and I know how much it means to the staff to have additional support,” said Deanna. “It’s such a happy place to volunteer, and knowing that we’re helping older adults who need assistance makes it all the more meaningful.”

Deanna volunteers twice a week in the Meals on Wheels People development department and is also known to lend a helping hand to the volunteer coordinator from time to time. During the holiday season, she also volunteers as a driver to make holiday deliveries and brings her grandchildren along for the ride. 

“Bringing my grandchildren with me during holiday deliveries has been such a joy,” said Deanna. “I think that me and my grandkids might be just as excited to see the meal recipients as they are to see us! It is truly a delight.”

Deanna found community within the Meals on Wheels People volunteer programs and feels accomplished knowing that the work she does directly supports older adults in her community. 

“My volunteer experience got me out of the house, and connected with people,” Deanna shared. “I love knowing that the organization returns the favor of connectivity to seniors who are homebound and unable to participate in volunteerism in the same way as me.”

To learn more about our available volunteer opportunities, visit mowp.org/volunteer.