About Joan:

She and her husband, Ron, live in Crown Point and have three children and eight grandchildren. Involved in scouting for 50 years; retired training director for Calumet Girl Scout Council. Enjoys babysitting and making afghans. Accomplishments: Joan Sherrington volunteers for Meals on Wheels. She drives one of the three routes in Crown Point or Cedar Lake between six and eight times a month. "I've always been a busy person, so when I retired I started volunteering for Meals on Wheels," she said. Sherrington joined the nonprofit organization five years ago and her 4-year old granddaughter Kara joins her if she drives on a Tuesday. Picking up the food, making the deliveries and returning empty containers takes less than 90 minutes. Sherrington's background in instruction helps her initiate new route drivers for Meals on Wheels. She also is a member and secretary of Crown Point Lions Club, attending dinner meetings twice a month and is involved in its four major fundraisers. Sherrington

puts together the club's monthly newsletter and keeps all the statistics. "I consider myself a professional volunteer," she said. "If you need something, call me."

What is most rewarding about volunteering? "I can see their smile. They feel better. You can see it. It makes me feel good."

Personal hero: "My mother. She was a member of the PTA even though she was a working mother. She was president. By example, this is what I have become."

What I read: "Harry Potter is one of my favorites, and I'm trying to get through ‘The Chronicles of Narnia.' It's interesting."

Advice: "If you're thinking about retiring, don't do it. Keep working. Keep your mind active."

How to get involved: For information on volunteer opportunities with Meals on Wheels, call (219) 756-FOOD.

- SUE BERO, Times Correspondent

To nominate someone for this feature, e-mail slbero@hotmail.com.