April is National Volunteer Month, and we thought it would be the perfect time to celebrate the individuals who make our mission possible. Each delivery is so much more than a meal. Our volunteers are lifelines for many of those we serve, bringing reassurance, checking in to ensure clients are safe and well, and offering conversation, warmth, and connection that can brighten an otherwise lonely day. In a world where isolation can weigh heavily, these small acts of kindness create a powerful impact. This month, we’re proud to shine a light on the compassionate people behind the routes.
Meet Some of Our Volunteers
Kelly Brillhart
For almost five years, Kelly has driven a regular meal delivery route and has also substituted for other drivers on both hot and frozen meal deliveries. In addition to delivering meals, she has helped with special events like our golf outing and Dancing with Our Stars. “Interacting with clients has made me appreciate the importance of reaching out to people in our community who are confined to their homes because of illness, disability, age or for some other reason,” says Kelly. “It has reinforced my belief that a kind word and a smile is sometimes all it takes to turn someone’s day around, and it’s always worth it to make the effort to spread happiness.”
Kathy Gouker
Kathy was working with the Good Samaritan Network when she decided to extend her volunteer reach. She has been volunteering with Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County for eleven years, delivering meals to clients and providing much needed social interactions as she goes about her route. Kathy says, “I am happy to give my time to help those that are less fortunate.”
Carolyn Rawlings
Carolyn Rawlings has been a Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County volunteer for over 15 years. Carolyn was inspired to start delivering meals after her son, who has multiple sclerosis, started receiving meals. “I wanted to share the kindness they showed to my son to others,” says Carolyn. “I have learned to be more open to others that need help. It has made me a better, more selfless person and it gives me a chance to give back to the community that I love.”
Debbi and Ken Baldauff
Debbi and Ken Baldauff have been delivering meals two days a week for Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County since November of 2024. “It’s always been important to us to help others. After we retired and moved to Indiana, we started looking for ways to give back to our community. We love that this relatively small commitment of time makes a difference in the lives of older adults in our community. For some folks, the meal delivery people might be the only person they regularly see. We can be light in their day. It’s easy and we encourage everyone to give it a try.”
Leslie Roman and Karen Warner
Leslie Roman and Karen Warner, neighbors and friends of 26 years, have been volunteers for about five years. Together, they share the responsibility of driving a delivery route one day a month. “The relationships formed with meal recipients have been particularly meaningful. Many meal recipients eagerly await their meal delivery not just for the nutritional support, but for the brief social interaction. Witnessing how a simple conversation can brighten someone’s day makes the experience very rewarding,” they say. “Perhaps most importantly, what might seem like a small act—delivering a meal—contributes to a larger system of care that supports our most vulnerable community neighbors. This understanding has inspired us to encourage others to get involved.”
Brad Sutter
Since joining Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County in February 2025, Brad Sutter has brought warmth and dedication to the Carmel community by delivering meals prepared at St. Vincent Carmel. After retiring from a 40-year career in medicine, Brad sought a way to continue helping others in his community, and he found it thanks to a tip from his wife.
“I am so glad I applied. It has been a wonderful experience. I have made several new friends along my delivery route, including their pets,” he shared. “I have benefitted from hearing their life stories, current challenges, and how much they appreciate Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County for their nutritional support. I also have enjoyed working with other Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County team members and witnessing their joy in helping others. I am fortunate to have discovered a meaningful volunteer opportunity in my retirement.”
Jack Reinhart
Jack Rinehart is a former investigative reporter for WRTV-6, member of the Indiana Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame and a Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County volunteer. Jack took some time to reflect on his volunteer experience and says, “Giving strengthens the giver. Volunteerism elevates our senses to the human condition. It gives us the vision we need to look beyond our own circumstances towards the greater challenges of the day. No matter what the age regardless of the circumstance, each person should have a level of support that gives them confidence about their future.” Read more about Jack’s experience on our blog.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Every smile at the door, every friendly conversation, and every moment of care reflects the compassion and commitment of our volunteers.
To our volunteers, you are the reason our neighbors feel seen and supported. You turn simple deliveries into meaningful moments, and your kindness reaches far beyond what can be measured. Because of you, our community is stronger, warmer, and more connected. Thank you for being the difference.