Jeff Decker knew he wanted to deliver meals as a Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels volunteer even before his retirement from the University of Michigan.
“I was always impressed with the organization,” which aligned with his own desire to provide food for his older neighbors. He began volunteering in November 2021 and in March 2025 was named YMOW’s Volunteer of the Quarter.
Every Monday, Jeff delivers meals to residents of Towne Centre Place in Ypsilanti. Mondays are busy days at YMOW, with food from Food Gatherers and Starbucks to deliver along with regular meals. But Jeff said he doesn’t mind the additional work, because every package of eggs, loaf of bread, or bag of fresh produce brings an extra smile to someone’s face.
And that’s exactly why Jeff reports to YMOW for his weekly route every Monday.
“Hopefully, I can brighten their day,” he said.
YMOW Volunteer Coordinator Elonah Dooley said she has no doubt that Jeff accomplishes that with every knock on a door.
“He spends time with clients and gets to know them while spreading the YMOW cheer,” Elonah said.
Whether it’s the temperature outside or the current state of the Detroit Tigers, Jeff said he enjoys the time he spends with each person, making Monday his favorite day of the week.
“It’s been a good fit for me,” Jeff said.
