"If you have time, volunteer," said Russ Sompayrac. "Anyone that has spare time should use it to help others that can't help themselves," said Bill Sompayrac. Bill is a 92-year-old rocky flats retiree that keeps busy volunteering at three other charities including Boulder Community Hospital, R.S.V.P., and the Optimists Club in Boulder. "I wasn't as busy when I was getting paid," said Bill about his volunteer work.

Russ works exclusively with the Meals on Wheels program with his father. "Russ is truly one of those rare volunteers who comes running every time we call for help," said Francea Phillips Executive Director of Meals on Wheels. "In fact, he doesn't even wait to be called....many days, he will call us to see if we need him!"

Russ and Bill deliver food to people who cannot get out on their own. From the elderly that are permanently house bound, to young men and woman suffering from temporary ailments who need some help. "[It] gives me a chance to drive and help people at the same time," said Russ. "[I'm] thankful I can do it," said Bill.

These two partners in crime, Bill and his son Russ, are a real inspiration. Both enjoy history as a hobby, talking it up with Meals on Wheels recipients, and both offer themselves at extraordinary lengths to their respective charities in Boulder County. Russ frequently drives many days each week and even delivers more than one route when drivers don't come to deliver their assigned routes," said Phillips. "We are truly blessed to have the Sompayracs on our team!"

Russ and Bill can end up driving as far as Gunbarrel with up to nine houses on a route. Meals on Wheels regularly gives away meals to those who cannot afford them and are home bound. Serving variations of the same meals served at the senior center in Boulder and Longmont, Meals On Wheels caters to peoples dietary needs as well as their limited mobility.

When asked what they would say to anyone thinking about volunteering Russ said, "Any companies or individuals that have the time, Meals on Wheels could use the help."
"The people are real friendly… you'll enjoy it. I enjoy it," said Bill.

For information about volunteering with Meals on Wheels or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904, or go to our Volunteer Central.