Volunteer Opportunity - Drivers and Support Roles to Help Deliver Meals!

Description

Your Time. Their Independence. Our Community.

GECAC’s Meals on Wheels program provides nutritious, home-delivered meals to older adults throughout Erie County. Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that seniors receive food, brief wellness checks, and moments of human connection.

Meals on Wheels volunteers help reduce food insecurity, prevent social isolation, support independent living, and provide early detection of health or safety concerns.

Because a meal is never just a meal.

We offer flexible opportunities for both drivers and non-drivers.

Volunteer Driver (Priority Role)

Volunteer Drivers pick up packaged meals from a designated kitchen or senior center and follow an assigned delivery route to bring meals directly to seniors’ homes.

Key Responsibilities

• Pick up packaged meals from designated sites.
• Deliver meals along the assigned route.
• Provide a brief, friendly visit and wellness check.
• Report concerns or notable changes in a client’s condition.
• Communicate with GECAC staff regarding completed routes or issues.

Time Commitment

• Approximately 1–2 hours per route
• Flexible weekday morning and early-afternoon routes
• Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly options available

General Volunteer Benefits (All Ages 18+)

• Mileage reimbursement (with monthly cap)
• Training and ongoing support
• Resume-building experience
• Meaningful community impact
• No background check required

Additional Benefits for Volunteers Age 55+ Who Enroll in Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

• Supplemental volunteer insurance
• Access to RSVP recognition and engagement opportunities

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license
• Reliable personal vehicle
• Up-to-date auto insurance
• Age 18+

Volunteer Runner (No Driving Required)

Volunteer Runners accompany a Driver and assist with door-to-door delivery and navigation. This role is ideal for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to drive.

Great For

• Students
• Seniors
• Individuals seeking volunteer hours
• Those interested in helping without driving

Intergenerational & Group Volunteering

Families, friend groups, and community organizations are welcome to volunteer together. Youth may assist as runners alongside an adult.

Why Volunteer?

Each delivery:

• Supports independence
• Reduces isolation
• Provides a wellness check
• Strengthens our community

If you can show up, there’s a role for you.