During its first full year, the Meldrim
Community Service Program provided 1,603 hours to help seniors and
disabled members of the community, according to Stephen Newsome, president
of the Meldrim Civic Club.
Newsome began the program in the summer of 2006 in honor of his
grandmother.
“We go around and do anything that seniors need,” he said.
He said this includes yard work, fixing handicap ramps and some
painting.
“My grandparents raised me, so I’ve always seen what seniors go
through,” Newsome said. “I see them going without and not being able
to get things done.”
He said he approached the county to have the program included as
community service through the court system.
Newsome said Judge Ronnie Thompson and Effingham County Chief Probation
Officer David Zittrauer provided a lot of support for the program, and the
workers from the program contributed 893 hours during the year.
Newsome said Steve Rodgers will be awarded volunteer of the year.
“He saw what a difference it made,” Newsome said. “He saw the
need for it as well, and has been a part ever since.”
Rodgers volunteered more than 150 hours during the year.
“I’ve known Stephen for a long time and heard him talk about how
appreciative the people are,” said Rodgers, who began volunteering to
help Newsome.
Rodgers said there is always something that can be done.
He found out on Dec. 30 that he was the volunteer of the year.
“I didn’t know what to think,” Rodgers said. “It made me feel
appreciated for all that I’ve done with (Newsome).”
He said the most memorable experience volunteering during the year was
when the program did yard work for Ms. Garvin.
“Ms. Garvin hadn’t been out of her house. She came out and sat on
her porch and enjoyed her yard after we cleaned it up,” Rodgers said.
He said you don’t know how much the work is appreciated until you do
it and sit down with someone.
“You’ve made another friend,” Rodgers said.
Newsome said those in the community who receive the services are always
appreciative.
“You get hugs and they get teary eyed,” he said. “I can’t
describe that. It’s a good feeling.
“It doesn’t have to cost money, a little bit of time makes a
difference. It’s amazing what two hours will do.”
Newsome said that when there are several volunteers working on a
project they will take turns visiting on the porch with the person for
whom the work is being done.
“They’re so nice,” Newsome said. He said while there is no charge
for any work, “we do get chocolate cake and pecan pie.
“It would be great if you could really work for pie,” he said.
The Meldrim Community Service Program is always looking for volunteers. Those interested in helping can contact Stephen Newsome at 661-2248 or find more information on the program at http://www.meldrim.com/.
For more information, go to http://www.meldrim.com/
Posted: Jan. 2, 2008 6:26
p.m.
Updated: Jan. 2, 2008 6:26 p.m.