Do you know Berks Encore has volunteer opportunities?
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Wheels, Wags, and Warm Hearts
Berks Encore is proud to shine the spotlight on Bob and Jeanette Lake, from Douglassville who have been volunteering with Meals on Wheels Berks County for the past two years.
Bob, a retired engineer, and Jeanette, a retired bookkeeper and bartender, are enjoying their retirement years by giving back to the community they love. Married with five children and eleven grandchildren, the Lakes know the importance of family, kindness, and connection—and they bring those same values to their volunteer work.
For Bob and Jeanette, delivering meals isn’t just about providing nourishment; it’s about spreading care and compassion to their neighbors. “It feels good to do something to help the local community,” they shared. Over time, they’ve built lasting friendships with clients, staff, and fellow volunteers.
Riding along on their deliveries is Dixie, their friendly 40-pound female pit bull/lab mix. Dixie’s wagging tail and sweet demeanor brings smiles to clients, adding a special dose of joy to each delivery day.
When they’re not volunteering, Bob and Jeanette enjoy spending time in their garden and relaxing with a good book. But even outside their route, they’re known for their willingness to help wherever needed. As Sharon Pedrick, Berks Encore Douglassville Center Manager shared, “they have stepped up so many times to fill in for other drivers on all the routes. They are wonderful!”
Berks Encore extends heartfelt thanks to Bob, Jeanette, and Dixie for their generosity, dedication, and warm hearts. The Lakes truly make a difference in the lives of Meals on Wheels clients in the Douglassville area—one meal, and one wagging tail, at a time.
You can make a difference in the lives of homebound older adults who rely on Meals on Wheels. Berks Encore needs delivery drivers especially at our Reading Center. Please visit Berksencore.org or contact Michelle Goodhart, Volunteer Coordinator, 610-374-3195 ext. 225 to learn more.
