“I’ve been given so much, and I believe it’s important to give back,” says Sandy Miller.
It’s that belief that has compelled him to be part of SVdP Indy’s home delivery program for the last several years. Sandy started as a driver, delivering to the same apartment complex for about seven years.
“The work is fulfilling, and I’ve really come to enjoy the people—both those I volunteer with and those I was delivering to,” Sandy shares. “Many of the volunteers have been involved for years—they are very devoted. We have gotten to know those we’re delivering to, and we care about them and look forward to connecting with them each week.”
Due to his faithful service, he was a natural to take over for Mary Shanley, who coordinated the home delivery program for 15 years. Except he wasn’t sure if he wanted the role at first. In fact, Sandy turned Mary down the first couple of times she asked. But, after learning more about the role from Mary, he accepted the call—and is so glad he did.
“I love SVdP and what we do for those in need,” he says. “It’s important as a Catholic in central Indiana, and as long as I can do this, I will.”
However, life happens.
Sandy had to pause his involvement two years ago after his left foot was amputated due to complications from diabetes. During that time, Mary came back to fill in, and after Sandy received a prosthetic, he was back at it, along with Mary’s support.
“Mary understands conferences and districts well—better than anyone—and has been helping assign drivers to various delivery routes for Wednesday deliveries,” explains Sandy. “She is incredibly important to home delivery, SVdP Indy and me. I love that woman, get emotional thinking about it.”
The admiration is mutual.
“I love him, too,” Mary says. “He’s fantastic—a go-getter and good worker.”
While she’s loved working with him, she’s ready to “retire.” At the age of 80, she feels it’s time to relax and have fewer commitments. And Sandy, too, needs to scale back, having recently had the top part of his right foot amputated. After the prosthetic, he’s ready to jump back in—but can’t do it alone.
That’s why Sandy and Mary are asking someone from the SVdP Indy community to step up and help with the coordination. The good news: This individual would have Sandy to guide them, and could collaborate with other key members of the Home Delivery leadership team.
Below is what’s involved and the time commitment:
| Day of Week | Tasks to Be Done | Time Commitment |
|---|---|---|
| Monday or Tuesday Done from home or at pantry |
| 2 hours |
| Wednesday AM Must be in pantry | 7:30-8 a.m.
8 a.m.
Busiest time: 9:30-10:30 a.m. 12-12:30 p.m.
| 5 hours |
| Thursday or Friday Done from home or at pantry |
| 1-2 hours |
Ready to Make a Difference?
Anyone who likes organizing is ideal for the role. Good communication and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people are also essential.
Currently, the home delivery program serves approximately 380 people/families each week, but the need is greater and SVdP Indy would like to ramp up to at least 400. To do that requires not only coordination help but more drivers (and subs to fill in) and people to help assemble bags every Wednesday morning.
- If you’re interested in helping coordinate the home delivery program, please contact Heather Snyder, Director of Volunteer Services, at hsnyder@svdpindy.org.
- Want to be a driver (or substitute driver) or part of the assembly team? Visit our volunteer portal to sign up.
“One of our works of mercy is to feed the hungry, and being involved with the home delivery program is a way to live that out in our own city,” says Mary. “Everyone who volunteers finds great satisfaction helping those who don’t have anyone else to help them.”
