If you’re out and about in Leonardville, chances are you will run into Senior Corps RSVP volunteer
Dolores Renner at one of her many activities. Dolores assists with the Leonardville Seniors by serving as their treasurer and helping with their weekly meals; she has even served as their president 4-5 times over the years. She enjoys checking in on senior residents at home, in the nursing home, and by phone to make sure they have what they need and are doing well.
Dolores is active with the Leonardville PRIDE group, a grassroots effort to improve the quality of life in Leonardville by developing projects and encouraging residents to come together for community betterment. Dolores has worked with her fellow PRIDE members to assist with park projects and host the annual Hullabaloo, including new park signage, games, the cake walk, and a booth with items for kids to decorate their bike for the parade.
When her husband passed away 8 years ago, Dolores felt the desire to take up his volunteer work and follow in his footsteps. She has continued his tradition of placing flags on veteran graves every Memorial Day and is active in the American Legion Auxiliary. She has especially enjoyed her work with the American Legion because it allows her to connect with veterans and help them know that they have not been forgotten. The group makes items for the VA in Topeka, holds an annual Memorial Day service at the Riley Cemetery, and plan other veteran projects throughout the year. The current Auxiliary president is someone that Dolores admires because of her passion and dedication to the veterans.
Delores is also engaged with her church community and had been president of the Leonardville library board for several years. She enjoys Leonardville because it’s a friendly, small “know everybody” community where people are willing to help each other. Dolores encourages everyone to volunteer in their community because it’s something to do that’s worthwhile; it’s an opportunity to meet nice, special people who appreciate the work that you’re able to provide.