Guest entry by Colleen Lowe, Communications Manager in Ontario
Shortly after retiring from his job at the local hydro station, Rick Nienhuis noticed a sign recruiting volunteers for the Sarnia Red Cross branch in Ontario. It piqued his curiosity and he needed something to keep him busy.
Ten years later, Rick is like a part of the family at the Sarnia branch. Often requested by name by his ongoing clients, he volunteers four days a week in the transportation program making sure that his clients get to where they need to go.
Occasionally he helps with Meals on Wheels delivery, and also works in the office one day a week. Tammy Fauteux, the Community Services Coordinator at the Sarnia Branch says the clients adore him and he is always a pleasure to be around. He has a way of making everyone feel important.
Rick loves interacting with all his clients, but has a fondness for his regulars.
As a father of five children he shares with his wife Carolyn, Rick is used to staying busy. He is an avid Maple Leaf fan, knows sign language, and enjoys camping and fishing. Oh yes...and one other thing, sometimes Rick goes by the name “Chirp”, which he was given after graduating from clown school. He still helps out occasionally at community events when they are in need of a clown. And when he’s not busy with these other activities, he sure brings a smile to everyone around him at the Red Cross.
