We at VNA have heavy hearts as we mourn the loss of long-time VNA Meals on Wheels volunteer and VNA Lifetime Board Member Mary Bartholow. For those of you who had the privilege of knowing Mary, you knew she was passionate about serving wherever she was needed—whether driving Meals on Wheels with her daughters, organizing 180 volunteers from the Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, or coordinating the annual toiletry drives for the VNA Holiday Gift Project.

Mary’s journey with VNA Meals on Wheels began in 1987, when she read a newspaper article about VNA’s need for volunteers. She and her husband immediately answered the call, taking on a weekly route in South Dallas. For more than 31 years, Mary compassionately gave of her time, talent and treasure to ensure no senior was left hungry or alone. Mary offered kindness, dedication and compassion to all who had the honor of knowing her.

Mary was truly an inspiration to her volunteers who referred to her as their “shepherd” as she radiated the power of kindness and giving. In 2017, VNA created a volunteer appreciation award named after Mary for her extraordinary service and Mary was the first recipient.

VNA will always be grateful for Mary’s giving spirit and tireless efforts to help seniors age with dignity and independence at home. You can help us carry on her legacy through the joyful volunteer experience of delivering Meals on Wheels. Please consider becoming a volunteer or invite others to volunteer and join us in keeping her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Congratulations to Toyota for being named Corporate Partner of the Year at the DCEO Nonprofit & Corporate Citizenship Awards.

With a commitment to partnering with community, civic, academic, and government organizations to address society’s most pressing mobility challenges, Toyota has donated their generous time and support to help VNA Meals on Wheels improve efficiency and better serve seniors and disabled adults in need.

Watch the video below.