Downtown Sights

For many people, roadwork and construction projects are usually more of an annoyance when navigating traffic. For Jeremy Swecker, seeing things built in a neighborhood in real time is a boon.

If you ask him a question about when a construction project is due to be finished, Swecker always knows the answer. Traveling through downtown alongside the ongoing municipal projects was one of the draws of connecting him to the Meals on Wheels program to volunteer. Community Inclusion Specialist Sheanah Henry said their current route is just as much fun for Swecker as it is to see his new friends and hand out meals.

He has been thrilled to get back out in the city to volunteer again. For several years before the pandemic, he routinely delivered for Meals on Wheels, but it’s been a year and a half since he was able to participate in the program.

“It’s not the same route he had before but we’re pretty sure he enjoys his time volunteering. He has already made a friend and looks forward to meeting many more,” Henry said.

One of Swecker’s new friends went out of his way to get Swecker a new watch for his birthday. “I put it in my bedroom,” Swecker said proudly.

The current Meals on Wheels path that Swecker and Henry cover brings meals to 11 people and Henry said that the growth Swecker has made over time has been wonderful to see.

“We love this route. Jeremy is always ready to go when I pick him up. He always tells me which route to take. He's becoming more independent and he's wanting to hand-deliver all the meals,” Henry said.