Public Relations & Volunteer Spotlight May 2005

Bertha Anderson Congregate Meal Volunteer at the Zearing/McCallsburg Site Bertha Anderson does not relish the spotlight but agreed to this interview to help bring publicity to Heartland’s newest congregate meal site. In February Heartland opened its ninth congregate meal site in Story County at the Bethany Lutheran Church in McCallsburg.  The senior meal is served here at noon on the first Monday of the month. In just three short months the number of participants at this site has risen to 52.  Credit for this program rests with many determined area residents, and although Bertha Anderson is quick to state she did not work alone, it is due to her persistence that the senior gathering continues.  “We began a few years ago with potlucks at the American Legion,” she explains.  “Then as our numbers dwindled, I just didn’t want to see us lose this opportunity for seniors.” Bertha called around to see what could be done and, when Heartland Senior Services found a kitchen at Bethany Lutheran Church that could be licensed for a congregate meal, the senior meal in Zearing/McCallsburg breathed new life. Bertha names several other long-time volunteers that have been advocates for senior meals in the area.  Joan Grey of Zearing laid much groundwork through her devoted hours both to home-delivered meals and other senior services.  Joyce Seltzer, also of Zearing, currently takes reservations from that area.  LaVonne Christianson and Carolyn Ellingson of McCallsburg, among others, help Anderson set up and serve the meal.  And Linda Graham at the Post Office helps spread the word. “It is a community effort and it obviously fills a need,” says Anderson.  “It is not only provides a good meal and fellowship but a chance to hear about other senior opportunities from Heartland’s Outreach Specialist and receive footcare/blood pressure checks from Homeward.” It was just this kind of community involvement that the Anderson family was seeking when they relocated to McCallsburg in 1969 to raise their family of four. “When my husband died 20 years ago I considered moving back to Nebraska, but now my family is rooted in central Iowa so I am glad to stay.  This is a great community in which to live.” Besides volunteering with Heartland meals, Bertha has been a part of the Family Friends program at Easter Seals.  She also has done her share of childcare, helping with community children, five grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren throughout the years.  Her other hobbies include knitting, crocheting, sewing, e-mailing, and caring for her beloved dog, Herman. Thanks, Bertha, for stepping forward in volunteerism and making a positive difference for seniors in our communities. Previous Volunteer Spotlight Honorees