John Pelura is the City of Salem Police Chief and has been a Meals on Wheels volunteer for over 13 years.
We asked John to share with us his story of why he became a volunteer and what the experience has meant to him over the years.
“I initially became aware of MOW when I was a kid. My neighbor and my great-aunt had the old MOW placards in their windows. I wasn’t sure what it was and at that age it was of no concern to me. Later in life, I received a mailing about MOW. I read up on the group’s mission and thought about donating money but wanted to do something more personal in appreciation for what MOW provided Mrs. Davis and Aunt Eleanor. The volunteer hours were consistent and with the help of Teresa I was able to get a route in and around Salem.
Volunteering for MOW is important to me because it not only allows me to deliver a meal to someone who may not otherwise be able to prepare their own, it also gives that person at least one contact for the day and allows me to offer any help while I’m there.
I started volunteering for MOW to give back but I was surprised how much joy I get out of delivering meals and meeting with the clients.”
Thank you Chief Pelura for fitting meal delivering into your busy schedule.