What Drives local couple to Give Back to their Community?

Jim and Faylene Beltz of Hamburg, PA, are a couple whose lives have
been defined by a deep commitment to their family, careers, and community.
Married for over 40 years, their dedication to helping others shines
through in all they do. Faylene, taught third grade for 30 years-27 of those
in the Tulpehocken School District – and Jim, worked for AT&T/Lucent
Facility in Reading where he led the plant to OSHA VPP Star status and
then spent his remaining career of 18 years as a math teacher for the Oley
School district. Together, they raised two children: Ryan, who lives in
Montgomery County, PA, and Adriene, who resides in Dexter, MI. They
are also proud grandparents to Emmitt and Poppy.

Volunteering has always been a part of their lives. Faylene’s service began
early through her 4-H club, while Jim found his calling as a community
coach in baseball, basketball, and soccer. They’ve been active volunteers
at their church for decades, and when retirement opened a new chapter,
they joined Berks Encore as Meals on Wheels volunteers, eager to continue
making a difference.

Since 2020, Jim and Faylene have faithfully delivered meals on the Shoemakersville
and Hamburg routes. “Throughout our lives, we have cared
about others. Volunteering with Meals on Wheels allows us to touch our
local community in a meaningful way,” they explain. “It’s something we
can do together, and we’ve seen firsthand how providing a basic meal and
spending a little time with clients can have such a big impact.”
Their dedication goes beyond delivering meals. Jim once helped a client
during a medical emergency, quickly contacting family and emergency
services to ensure they received care. On another occasion, the couple
sprang into action when a client’s dog escaped, chasing it through the
neighborhood until it was safely returned.

Andrea Gebely, Berks Encore Strausstown Center Manager shared “Jim
and Faylene have been wonderful and dedicated weekly Meals on Wheels
volunteers. They started out delivering the Shoey route, and when extra
help was needed with the Hamburg route, they stepped in without hesitation.
Some days, they even split up to cover both routes. They are caring
and diligent volunteers, and I am so thankful for both of them.”
In addition to their volunteer work, Jim and Faylene stay active in their
retirement. They enjoy tennis, biking, walking, bowling, and gardening.
Faylene’s sewing business has become a cherished hobby, stemming from
her early 4-H days. These activities reflect the couple’s shared values of
learning, growth, and staying connected to their community.
Beltz’s story is a testament to the impact of volunteerism. They not only
deliver meals but also bring smiles, care, and connection to the seniors they
serve. By going the extra mile—literally and figuratively—Jim and Faylene
exemplify the true spirit of giving back. Berks Encore would like to thank
Jim and Faylene for their dedication to serving homebound older adults
through Meals on Wheels.

Berks Encore needs volunteer drivers to help deliver Meals on Wheels.
For more information and to complete a volunteer application, please
visit berksencore.org or call Michelle