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 Mary Wodziak has the solid work ethic typical of her generation, and fortunately for us she puts it to use at Together We Cope several days a week as a volunteer in the food pantry.
At 74, Mary can run circles around much younger volunteers. Pantry manager Carol Ettema says Mary is one of her best workers, one who tackles any job that needs doing. “Mary is often the first one in, and she regularly stays late if there’s still work to be done – without being asked to do so,” Carol said. For Mary, a Tinley Park resident, it’s just the way she’s always lived. “I like the idea of keeping busy. I’ve always been one who had to be working, ever since I was a girl,” she said. Mary has three children, six grandchildren and one great grandchild. Her husband, Joe, died three years ago. “I did a lot of volunteering before, especially at my grandchildren’s school, but when they grew up and I lost my husband, I was looking for something new to do,” she explained. She heard about Together We Cope from a family member. “From working here, I’ve learned how lucky I am. I can see how bad off some are today, in this economy, and it makes me feel good I can at least help. We had bad times of our own, as all families do, but overall I realize we have been fortunate,” Mary said of her work at Together We Cope. Mary has been with Together We Cope for nearly three years, and has noticed the increase in need wrought by the current recession. “The people we help are such nice people,” she said. “They are so grateful, and you get to be friends with them. You get lots of hugs, and many say ‘God Bless you’ for helping them out. It just feels so good to help someone, and I guess that’s why I keep coming back.” Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites           |
