In case you’re searching for more of a purpose in life or to simply impress the UCs and CSUs with your volunteer history for your applications. Look no further than down Mount Vernon at the Prado Senior Center, where they do all the Meals on Wheels for Bakersfield and surrounding areas.
It’s for “helping the elderly, the ones that are forgotten,” stated Vanntha Fujihara who is the Senior Nutrition Site Coordinator for Meals on Wheels.
They cook and deliver the meals Monday through Friday.
“We make about depending on the day… we go up to 480… the lowest is 430,” explained Josh Avila, the head chef.
One kitchen worker explained her favorite things about working there, “I love the hours, I love the people. Not only that the seniors here are awesome,” explained Audrey Barriga
Due to the lack of workers and volunteers, “the drivers are covering extra routes,” Fujihara continued, “so between four and five hours long,” is about how long it takes for the shifts to get completed. Which means the meals are delivered at later times to the seniors.
With more volunteers means better news everyone involved, especially the seniors.
“It’s good to help someone and not only that, but a lot of them don’t feel like they have people who care about them,” Fujihara continued, “And we really genuinely care about our seniors.”
Drivers have even formed wonderful bonds on their routes. “They see them as family,” Fujihara said explaining how the seniors see their drivers.
If you’re still debating Advisor Abraham Castillo stated, “That universities are about their communities, so volunteer work looks great.”
Now, if you want to start the volunteer process today go to https://www.kerncounty.com/government/aging-adult-services/services/senior-nutrition/senior-nutrition-intake-form
Once you fill out the form you will hear from Paula Segura, Senior Nutrition Site Coordinator for Meals on Wheels who is also in charge of all the volunteers.
As a BC alum Segura wanted to let BC students know, “That it’s something very rewarding and fulfilling because we’re giving back to the elderly community and they’re very vulnerable.”