Catchin' a ride

Project Emeritus volunteer Lou Dalmau (center in white shirt) receives a plaque from 45th Space Wing Commander Susan Helms Tuesday morning at the Manatee Cove Golf Course. A retired Air Force technical sergeant, Mr. Dalmau has accumulated more than 3,000 volunteer hours ferrying customers around the course in the shuttle golf cart he operates. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jim Laviska).

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Project Emeritus; Got Volunteers?

Published June 27, 2008
By Tech. Sgt. Lisa Luse'
45th SW Public Affairs

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Almost everyone has seen a certain magazine advertisement that asks the question "Got milk?" The idea is to encourage more people to drink milk. The Patrick Air Force Base Project Emeritus volunteer office is asking some base organizations if they "Got Volunteers?"

Though Project Emeritus won't use a photo of a celebrity with a milk mustache to get attention; they are looking for new offices on base to place their volunteers. The volunteers who sign up with the project have a variety of skills and experience. The retirees have experience from previously being on active duty. Department of Defense civilians and their spouses are welcome to volunteer as well.

For instance, there are volunteers in the Fitness Center, Family Readiness and the Airman's Attic. In addition, there are more specialized jobs available with the Judge Advocate General, Pharmacy and Civil Engineering Squadron. "We try to match the volunteer with that they did on active duty or civil service," said Harold "Jerry" McAnulty, Project Emeritus Director. They're spread out across the base, though a lot of the volunteers work with the Airman's Attic, said Mr. McAnulty.

However, Project Emeritus is looking for other offices to identify with certain requirements so the volunteers have more availability as these vacancies present themselves, he said. The volunteers work at least four hours a week. Once they get settled into their job, the volunteers can discuss options with their supervisors to work more if they wish. At that time the supervisor and volunteer will work out a schedule they both can agree upon. There are really no limitations to their service.

The Project Emeritus office works to accommodate any volunteers who may have special physical needs. The volunteers will never be put in a position that requires them to lift heavy objects or work in a hazardous environment.

To become a volunteer or engage the services of one, contact the Project Emeritus office at 494-7656.

Catchin' a ride