Congratulations to Ted Campbell, volunteer for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), on being named "Most Dedicated Volunteer" by the Optimist International Club of Manassas! A native of Houston, TX, Ted graduated from college with a BS in Education, and served as a Military Intelligence officer in Vietnam. Following his service, Ted worked for Ford, Digital Equipment and Amtrak before retiring in 2013.
Ted joined RSVP after seeing an ad in the newspaper. He signed up for Meals on Wheels in 2016 and has been with the program ever since, delivering hot, midday meals to homebound seniors living in Manassas Park. Ted also substitutes for a route if a volunteer has to be absent due to a trip, illness or emergency.
During the holidays, Ted also supports our Untrim a Tree program by helping to deliver the Senior Baskets/Gift Bags to various agencies supporting homebound seniors. In 2017, nearly 260 seniors living in the community, and residing at the Willow Oaks facility on the campus of Birmingham Green, were able to receive a basket or gift bag thanks to Ted's support.
Ted feels strongly that interacting with homebound seniors is the most rewarding part of being a member of RSVP. He feels he's making a worthwhile contribution to help others and enjoys knowing he can deliver a nutritious meal to senior citizens, and provide them with necessary social interaction. Many of these seniors are home alone, unable to drive, which creates feelings of depression and isolation. Having a visit from Ted, along with other Meals on Wheels volunteers, is a bright spot in their day.
Sue Gilbert, manager of the Manassas Senior Center remarked, "Ted is a faithful and reliable volunteer dedicated to delivering Meals on Wheels to homebound older adults in Prince William County. [He] always arrives with a smile…and never misses the opportunity to greet staff before [heading] out. Not only does Ted deliver meals every week but he's always willing to fill in as a substitute at the last moment!"
The staff of Volunteer Prince William is thankful for RSVP volunteers such as Ted who not only has served his country but also continues to serve his community in a cheerful and compassionate manner. Thank you, Ted, for your service both to your country and to our community - you are truly our "Most Dedicated Volunteer!"
