Even though Becky Hunter retired after 33 years of teaching 7-year-olds, she wasn’t quite ready to slow down. Her situation was similar to many we often hear about.
“After I retired, I wanted to find something to do to give back,” she said. “One of my friends at church delivered Meals on Wheels, and when she gave up her route, it was a perfect opportunity for me to step in.”
For nearly two decades, Becky has spent one day each week delivering meals to homebound seniors in Hoover.
What began as a volunteer opportunity soon became a chance to form genuine friendships, share stories and bring comfort to those who might otherwise spend the day alone.
A Weekly Visit That Brightens the Day…for Her and Her Clients
The final stop on her Meals on Wheels route each week is the home of Jerry Sumerel, a longtime client and extremely proud and enthusiastic Alabama football fan.
“Jerry always has a smile on his face when he comes to the door. I usually go in and set the food on the table, and then we talk. Lots of times it’s football. Mostly Alabama football,” said Becky.
She recalls one visit in particular that’s had a lasting effect on her. Jerry once mentioned how much he loved chocolate milk. A few days later, Becky spotted a bottle at the store and decided to bring it along on her next delivery.
“He was like a kid on Christmas morning,” she said. “The next week, he told me it was the best chocolate milk he’d ever had. Now, every time I see chocolate milk, I think of Jerry.”
For Becky, the reward is simple: seeing a smile, sharing a conversation and knowing her time matters. It’s a win-win for both her and her clients. She is literally providing them with a vital service, and the experience is richly rewarding for her.
“It gives me a sense of pride to do something for others,” she said. “Meals on Wheels has such an impact because it helps people stay independent and connected.”
Staying Connected Through Volunteering
Volunteering in general is a great way to feel connected to, and actively engaged with, the community at large. In Becky’s case, it’s even allowed her to build many personal connections on her route that have lasted for years.
“One of my clients who recently passed away became one of my best friends,” she said. “You get attached, and that’s what makes it meaningful.”
Her advice to anyone thinking about volunteering is straightforward:
“If you have a car and the time…do it,” she said. “It’s not time-consuming, but it’s very rewarding. You get to know wonderful people you probably wouldn’t have met otherwise, and they’re always happy to see you. That makes my day.”
Through Meals on Wheels, volunteers such as Becky make it possible for neighbors in Jefferson County to stay connected, nourished and independent in their own homes – right where they want to be. To learn how you can help ensure that even more homebound seniors and people with disabilities receive the support they need through United Way Meals on Wheels, click here.