Lewes Senior Activity Center celebrates work of volunteers

Lewes Senior Activity Center is home to the largest group of volunteers participating in a statewide program known as Volunteer Delaware 50+, and half are not even officially counted into the total yet.

A social hub with more than 3,000 members, Lewes Senior Activity Center has nearly doubled its membership since the pandemic. Operations at the center likely wouldn’t be possible without the dozens of volunteers who lend a hand year after year. On April 20, the center celebrated the work of its valuable team members with a special luncheon. About 70 people volunteer at the center, and most of them took time from serving to enjoy a meal with their fellow Samaritans. 

“We would be hard-pressed doing what we do without our volunteers,” said volunteer Irene Soroka.

Bobbi Jo Tice, volunteer coordinator at Volunteer Delaware 50+, explained the six-figure impact volunteerism has on providing essential services throughout the state. 

“Volunteers in the state of Delaware are worth $28 per hour,” Tice said. In 2022, $169,908 in salaries was saved by the work of volunteers for the Lewes Senior Activity Center, she said.

Tice said the actual figure could be much higher, but about half of the volunteers have been working without officially logging their efforts. 

Prior to Tice addressing the group, Lewes Senior Activity Center Executive Director Tricia Fleming showered the volunteers with praise. Given the expansion of membership, she said the work of the volunteers is vital to the programs and services offered by the center. In a labor of love, Fleming not only served the baked macaroni and cheese but also made the delicious side. Fleming was joined by other staff members, like Kate O’Rourke and Joanne Murphy, to ensure volunteers were the servees for the day. In a nod to the recent Easter holiday, ham and green beans were offered alongside mac and cheese.

Volunteer Delaware 50+ is a statewide program offered through the Delaware Health & Social Services, Division of State Service Centers, State Office of Volunteerism. The mission of Volunteer Delaware 50+ is to engage persons 50 and older in volunteer service, to meet critical community needs, and provide a high-quality experience that will enrich the lives of volunteers. 

More information about Lewes Senior Activity Center is available at lewesseniorcenter.org. Those interested in volunteering in Delaware can go to volunteer.delaware.gov.