Across Southern Maine, volunteers at the Southern Maine Agency on Aging are creating moments of connection, comfort, and care for older adults. Their experiences reflect the many ways kindness can take shape — through a meal, a conversation, a shared smile, or steady support during a difficult time.
Here are twelve of their stories, in their own words.
Gene — Meals on Wheels & Springvale Community Café Volunteer
When Gene retired, he wanted to do something meaningful. He now volunteers with Meals on Wheels and at the Springvale Community Café.
“It’s important to me to give back — to put something good into the world. Volunteering gives me purpose.”
Michaela — Medicare Volunteer
After eight years in healthcare, Michaela wanted a new way to give back. She found it as a Medicare Counselor.
“I remember thinking, I wish there was a place people could go for clear, personalized Medicare help. Now, I get to be that person — helping others feel confident and supported. It’s amazing to simplify the system for someone and help them access benefits that can truly change their life.”
Louanne — Adult Day Program Volunteer
When she retired from her career at a law firm, Louanne knew she wanted to volunteer. She joined the Adult Day Program in Springvale this year.
“When I come in on Wednesdays, they all say, ‘Here’s Louanne!’ Even if they don’t remember some things, they remember music and the words to the songs. They light right up, and it is very special to me.”
Chris — A Matter of Balance Volunteer
After retiring, Chris wanted to use her time in a meaningful way and became a volunteer coach.
“A Matter of Balance isn’t just about physical wellness. It helps change your mindset, which is really the basis of everyone’s well-being. It encourages a positive attitude, gaining confidence, and telling yourself, ‘Yes, I can do this. I can try this.’”
“Time is precious. I want to make a positive difference with mine. And I’m always learning. The clients I meet teach me something every time. There’s a power in volunteering. You can feel like you’ve used your time on this earth well.”
Tricia — Respite Care Companion Volunteer
After caring for her own parents, Tricia felt naturally drawn to supporting older adults through the Respite Care Companion program.
“If I can make a little difference in someone’s life, I feel good. It’s a win-win—doing something that matters and helping someone else.”
Pam — Welcome Ambassador Volunteer
Pam began volunteering at the Biddeford Adult Day Program and now welcomes visitors at SMAA’s Portland Center.
“I want to be there to help people find the resources they need to lead a better life. I want to give them hope that this is possible.”
Peggy — Tai Chi Volunteer
For Peggy, volunteering with the Southern Maine Agency on Aging is an expression of gratitude.
When she was working full time and unable to drive her mother to a community luncheon, SMAA arranged transportation so her mother could attend. “She enjoyed the noon meal, but more importantly, she was able to make friends and socialize with people her age.”
Tom — Meals on Wheels Volunteer
Tom delivers meals twice a week and occasionally brings flowers donated by Shaw’s.
“I like the opportunity to help people – it’s a way of paying back for all the good I’ve experienced during my lifetime.”
Carolyn — Phone Pal Volunteer
After losing her husband of 66 years, Carolyn found purpose through connection.
“Volunteering put meaning back into my life. I like volunteering because it helps others, and it reaffirms how fortunate I’ve been in my own life. Many older adults are isolated and lonely. Having someone to trust and talk to matters more than people realize.”
Len — Meals on Wheels Volunteer
Len brings more than meals to the people he visits.
“Helping people just feels good—it’s something I’ve always done in my regular life. Meals on Wheels recipients are so happy to have company for a moment, to chat. Some live alone and are isolated, so even a few minutes to talk can lift their spirits. Meals on Wheels is more than just meal delivery – it’s a wellness check, a relationship, a connection. I always ask my clients how they’re doing and pay attention to their situation. That human connection can make all the difference.”
Karen — A Matter of Balance Volunteer
Karen sees her role as helping older adults stay independent and confident.
“I think most older adults hope to remain independent and age well in their own homes—I know I do. A Matter of Balance is an excellent class that makes those goals more feasible. I find it gratifying to help folks learn to look at things differently and become more confident in their own agency.”
John — Meals on Wheels Volunteer
John values the chance to listen and connect.
“I’ve realized how lonely and isolated some people are. I think the best service I provide isn’t just delivering meals—it’s being there to listen. People have stories to tell, and it means a lot when someone takes the time to hear them.”
Join Us in Making a Difference! These twelve stories highlight what is possible when one person chooses to show up with kindness. You can be part of that impact too.
Whether you have an hour a month or a few hours a week, you can help deliver meals, offer companionship, support wellness programs, or welcome visitors at one of our centers.
💛 Give
If you are able, your gift helps ensure older adults in Southern Maine receive meals, guidance, and meaningful connection when they need it most.
