July 26, 2013 (Lincolnton, NC) ─ When it comes to getting by with a little help from a friend, Heath House residents don’t have to look too far. Several residents are keeping active, gaining a sense of fulfillment and helping out others by volunteering at the DePaul Senior Living Community.

A former professor at Morehouse University in Atlanta, Georgia, Keith Smyre used to volunteer at soup kitchens and homeless shelters during the summers. When he came to Heath House 12 years ago, he put his love of volunteering to work at his new home. Smyre helps set the tables for meals and passes out snacks. He goes shopping every week with the Activity Director to provide additional assistance to residents who are unable to shop by themselves.

“Keith is always willing to give anyone a hand, no matter what the task, and he never lets a day go by without telling you how appreciative he is of what we do for him,” said Activities Director Katelyn Davis.

Smyre said volunteering gives him joy because it allows him to interact with a variety of people, both staff and residents.

“It feels great to help others and to know that what I am doing is making a difference in someone’s day,” he said.

A Lincolnton native who moved to Heath House this year, Marsha Myers helps call bingo, lead Sunday morning church services, offers devotions to residents and assists new residents in their transition by showing them around and encouraging them to participate in activities.

Myers also volunteers at Lincolnton Middle School where she tutors students who are in need of additional assistance.

“I enjoy being around others and helping in any way that I can,” she said. “I love to teach residents new things and offer new ideas for activities and crafts. Volunteering keeps me busy and I love to make people laugh.”

Originally from Iron Station, Patricia Moose moved to Heath House five years ago. When the resident who was facilitating the morning exercises was forced to stop due to health issues, Moose stepped up to lead.

“I felt like something was missing,” she said. “I enjoy seeing other residents smile and motivating them during morning exercise. “

“All the staff at Heath House are grateful for all of the things every resident volunteer does for us,” said Davis. “Volunteering gives the residents purpose.”

For more information about Heath House, please contact Administrator Jeanne Bolden at (704) 732-1113.