For Gwen and Chuck, volunteering isn’t just something they do—it’s part of who they are. The Pasco couple has been giving their time to Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels for the past several years, making a difference one meal at a time.

“We started before COVID at the Richland site, helping package meals,” Gwen recalls. “We took a little break during the pandemic but came back to volunteer in Pasco. It just felt right to serve our community.”

Every week, Gwen and Chuck arrive at the Meals on Wheels site ready to work. “When we first get here, we help Barb, the site manager, move the tables and set up,” Gwen explains. “Then, I help heat up the vegetables, and Chuck helps set all the tables for lunch.”

The Pasco site is a gathering place where seniors can sit down and enjoy a hot meal together. “Some days, we have five people eating here. Other days, it could be as many as twelve,” Chuck says. “And we get to know them. That’s the best part.”

Chuck and Gwen didn’t set out with a particular plan to volunteer at Meals on Wheels—they just knew they wanted to give back. “When I retired, I told Chuck, ‘We’re going to volunteer. We’re not just going to sit at home,’” Gwen says with a laugh. “We were looking for a place where we could really help, and Meals on Wheels was a perfect fit.”

What keeps them coming back? “The people,” Chuck says without hesitation. “I just enjoy it. Talking with them, joking around. You start to build real relationships.”

Gwen agrees. “You miss them when they’re not here. And they notice when you’re not here, too. It’s not just about serving meals; it’s about being part of their lives.”Gwen agrees. “You miss them when they’re not here. And they notice when you’re not here, too.

It’s not just about serving meals; it’s about being part of their lives.”One of their favorite regulars is a man named Al. “He likes to give me a hard time,” Chuck says with a chuckle. “But that’s okay because I give him a hard time right back. He’s a character. We have a lot of fun.”

For Gwen and Chuck, volunteering at Meals on Wheels is more than just an activity—it’s a source of joy. “It’s so rewarding,” Gwen says. “Helping others makes you happy.”

Chuck nods. “Volunteering here gives you satisfaction. When you see the appreciation, when someone says thank you, it just makes you feel good.”

They encourage others—especially couples like them—to give volunteering a try. “A lot of people retire and say, ‘I don’t know what to do with my time,’” Chuck points out. “Well, this is something you can do. And it’s meaningful.”

“Meals on Wheels is unique because you really get to know the people you’re helping,” Gwen adds. “At other places, you might be behind the scenes, but here, you sit, talk, and connect. It’s special.”

If you’re looking for a way to give back, meet great people, and bring joy to others, why not take Gwen and Chuck’s advice? “Just try it,” Chuck says. “You might find out you love it as much as we do.”

Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels is always looking for volunteers to help serve meals, deliver food, and brighten someone’s day. Join Gwen and Chuck in making a difference—one meal, smile, and friendship at a time.