Volunteers of all ages help out seniors in Mundelein

A dozen students from Mechanics Grove School descended on Tom and Norma Volpe's quiet Mundelein home Saturday, weeding the yard, sweeping the walk and painting windows.

Members of the school's Service Club, along with 150 other volunteers, were participating in the Mundelein Police Department's A-May-Zing Day of Caring. The 13th annual event links volunteers to Mundelein seniors who need a hand with household chores.

Tom, 83 and Norma, 80, moved to their house in 1974, well before the students were even born.

"I'm overwhelmed by their enthusiasm. We truly appreciate their help," Norma Volpe said.

Fifth-grader Elly Kjeldbjerg cleaned a light fixture on the backyard deck and was eager to take on other chores.

"It's a really good feeling to help people," she said.

Michelle Hendee, a nurse at Mechanics Grove, started the service club three years ago to provide opportunities for children to help out in the community. This is the group's first time working at the Day of Caring, she said.

"They're a good group of kids who like to help. What is nice about this project is that they will be able to see what they've accomplished," Hendee said.

Police officer Chris Callas took on chores ranging from weeding the yard to anchoring light fixtures. He has volunteered for the event most of the 10 years he's been on the force.

"We do absolutely anything that is needed around the house," he said.

Longtime resident Dick Wilson, 86, directed many of the projects at the Volpes.

"Usually people my age are receiving help, but I like to fix things and to help out," he said.

More than 150 volunteers worked at 42 homes this year, said Jennifer Marshall of the Mundelein Police Department, an event organizer.

Besides students from Carmel and Mundelein high schools, elementary schools and middle schools, local businesses, village and police staff and members of community churches volunteered.

For the first time, members of the Mundelein Fire Department checked fire detectors in the homes and replaced batteries, if needed. They also cleaned gutters at the homes.

Volunteers enjoyed a pizza lunch as a reward for their efforts.