I had the privilege of sharing in a special celebration recently. Absolut Care of Allegany was honoring my niece, Amelia Tallman, for 25 years of faithful service as a volunteer.

Volunteering is no rarity for Amelia. Many who know me — and her — know the heart and soul she pours into her activities. What’s a little different is she is blind and disabled. Health complications of recent years have meant almost regular wheelchair use. Does this stop Amelia? Not one bit!

Deb Wuethrich

Years back, she assisted her mom with a senior Bible study at Absolut, and also performed with the Tumbleweeds, a country group, that frequently entertained there. A former activities director (Nancy) noticed Amelia’s fervor for helping as well as her efforts to cheer and help. Nancy was happy to accept Amelia’s assistance.

For a long time, Amelia has been a fixture at resident parties and Bingo. She loves assisting at Bingo. Amelia will pass out food, prizes, materials, all the while encouraging everyone around her. Recently, Amy Button, current activities director, noticed how Amelia’s efforts not only cheered others but helped advance her personal physical and occupational goals. Amy did a cool thing. She gave Amelia a small desk, a badge and duties, including an assignment to design a bulletin board each week at the facility.

Amelia is ever planning and working on these and devotes a full day each week to putting it together.

Volunteering is something Amelia simply loves to do. She also works at the Harvest Field Food Pantry on a regular basis where the pastor gives her real job assignments. At Christmas, she helps pack, count and round up shoeboxes for Samaritan Purse’s Operation Christmas Child at Olean First Baptist Church. Coordinator Sharon Anthony calls Amelia “a vital part” of their volunteer force. These are just a few. She wears embroidered T-shirts for several volunteer endeavors.

As long as I have known her (since a little girl, of course), if she is around and there is work to be done, we’ll hear, “Need help?” It appears God made her for service—and Barnabas encouragement! Since e-mail became a thing, she’s been known as “Miss Witness,” practicing her faith through service. Her Christmas fudge gifts are legendary in the community.

At the Absolut celebration, I observed how the residents love her. There was easy banter and teasing, a lot coming from my niece toward her senior friends. Amy Button called her “the best volunteer ever” who even showed up through COVID when permitted. Amy presented a certificate, a personalized Absolut hoodie, and a large blanket with volunteer quotes.

“Thank you for always showing up,” Amy said, adding, “Anyone who knows Amelia knows her favorite treat is ice cream.” Amelia then proceeded to distribute treats for her personal party.

I knew some truths about giving hearts from raising my own little girl who showed kindness and caring, often overlooking her own limitations with spinal muscular atrophy. Taking part in Amelia’s special recognition reminded me of those times. It also helped me see that even though we may be overwhelmed with the world’s need and troubles and think we can’t make a difference, we can all do SOMETHING. And should!

(Contact contributor Deb Wuethrich at deborahmarcein@gmail.com.)