Jon and his partner in crime, Toby the dog, have been volunteering for LSCO for about a year now as regular drivers for the Meals on Wheels program.
Jon moved from Ontario last year where he also volunteered with a community Meals on Wheels program there. Before that, Jon drove semi-trucks across Canada and the United States and enjoyed his travels to Alberta. After his mother passed away, Jon decided it was time to give Alberta living a try.
As many of our volunteers, Jon is a dependable asset to the volunteer team. On top of supporting the Meals on Wheels program, Jon has become one of the go to guys for random tasks such as helping with the recycling and making other important deliveries to seniors in the community.
Jon is ALWAYS willing to give of his time to support the LSCO and other organizations in the Lethbridge community. Jon learned from his experiences looking after his aging parents the importance of seniors being able to age in place and live in their homes as long as possible, if that is what they wish to do.
Jon explained that Meals on Wheels is a cause that he supports and is passionate about and for Jon it’s not only about getting those nutritious meals to the clients, but also a friendly visit. Jon says, “it can be lonely when you’re by yourself. Just going door to door and saying “Hello” for some of these people it is the only time they get to see somebody.”
Jon really goes above and beyond when he delivers the meals on his route; he enjoys hearing about the history and stories from the people he meets. Jon mentioned that one older gentleman he delivers to enjoys keeping him up to date and informed about the Calgary Flames hockey team. Jon’s favourite thing about volunteering with LSCO Meals on Wheels is getting to meet and know people, plus he enjoys driving around the city with Toby – Toby likes it too!
Jon attributed his inspiration for generously giving his time as a volunteer to his grandparents and parents. His Grandparents went through the great depression and his grandfather was very giving to those who were struggling. His Dad started working at about 14 years old and had an amazing work ethic that he passed on to Jon. Yet, the most profound experiences that inspires and continues to motivate Jon to give, was helping care for his aging parents – His mother graduated from this life about 5 years ago, and his father 15 years before that from Alzheimer’s.
Jon emphasized, “It’s not a job. Volunteering is enjoyable.” Jon explained, “I think giving back to the city is important, because at some point in your life – down the road – you might need that support…. Volunteering at LSCO, everything is very organized and well structured. It only takes an hour and the routes are planned out for you… It’s just an hour a day. It’s nice to get out and meet people.”
Jon has truly been a pleasure to work with; his willingness to step in and fill a need is heartwarming; he is truly a volunteer
superhero here at LSCO and in the community of Lethbridge.
To nominate a volunteer for the spotlight series, contact the volunteer team.