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Volunteer Spotlight:
Meet Margaret McAlister
Tell us a little about yourself. How long have you been volunteering with Senior Community Connections?
I grew up in Greensboro, NC, and have lived in North Carolina most of my life. I have lived from Charlotte to the Lake Norman area for many years, 8 of those years residing in Davidson. Currently, I live in Mooresville. I have a daughter who is married and lives in Maiden along with my 3-year-old granddaughter. After college, I was in banking for many years and now, I am a health care management professor. I have been volunteering with Senior Community Connections since April of this year.
What drew you to volunteering with Senior Community Connections?
Since Covid, the classes I taught went from face-to-face to virtual. As a result of teaching at home, I have a lot of free time on my hands. I started looking into volunteering. When I looked at the different volunteer options in the area I came across SCC and knew this is where I wanted to help. After my father passed away my mother eventually ended up living in assisted living in a retirement community. She often felt very lonely even though we talked on the telephone every day but what meant the most to her was getting out of the facility and spending time in person with me. She passed away 3 years ago. When I saw what SCC did for those who did not have transportation, I knew I could make a difference.
What motivates you to give back to the community?
Throughout most of my life, I have been very fortunate but there were difficult times. I have volunteered throughout the years, but my hard times have resulted in being more empathetic as to what a difference volunteering can make in other lives.
What's your favorite thing about volunteering at SCC?
Getting to know the individuals I transport is my favorite thing about volunteering at SCC. Everyone I have met has touched me and meant more to me, making such a difference in my own life. Each of their stories portrays a character with such positive strengths. I only hope when I am in their shoes one day, I can portray the same to those I am around as they do.
Besides hanging out with our fabulous SCC Members, what do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy time with my daughter and her family, playing tennis, walking, spending time with friends, eating and watching the lake go by at North Harbor Restaurant, and vacationing in Hilton Head.
If you were on a deserted island, what three items would you take?
If I was on a deserted island this would be a short-lived visit (24-48 hours) as I do not know if I could withstand going into survivor mode for a longer period. I would take an inspirational book to read, a comfortable reclining chair, and a cooler with water and healthy snacks.
What would you say to someone who's thinking of volunteering with SCC?
I have met the most wonderful ladies I transport. They are such a joy to be with. Working with Andrea and the system SCC has set up concerning which volunteers are available is seamless. On the other hand, with the ones I transport, they are saying how great SCC is and how thankful it is available to this community. Thanks to SCC and their efforts, both parties are extremely happy.
A special THANK YOU to Margaret for all you do for Senior Community Connections!
If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering to help with transporation or other opportunities, please reach out to us at seniorslkn@gmail.com or check out www.seniorcommunityconnections.org/volunteer/ for more information!
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