For over 32 years, the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) has not only championed music education across our state—but quietly lived its values of service. Members of the TMEA team have volunteered their lunch hours to deliver meals, smiles, and companionship to older adults and people living with disabilities across Central Texas.
Meet a few of these devoted TMEA team members:
Susan Daughtery has walked this path for 27+ years, Karen Cross for 20, and Zachary Gersch for more than 6. TMEA’s early volunteer roots include Kay Comp, Tesa Kelly, and longtime route driver Laura Kocian. Their enduring commitment reflects the heart of TMEA’s community spirit.
“I have met many wonderful people … there is one person who answers the door with a cheerful and uplifting word. Even when I’m having a bad day, she always makes me feel better.”- Zachary Gersch
Each Thursday, the TMEA team delivers Route 73, and in the summer, they step in for substitute runs. They speak often of clients whose words, smiles, and resilience stay with them—gifts returned many times over.
“Delivering MOW always lifts my spirits … makes me count my blessings … one day, I may be the client rather than the volunteer!”-Susan Daughtery
Our homebound neighbors often live alone and depend on these meal deliveries for more than food—they bring vital connection and daily safety checks that help them maintain their independence. And teams who volunteer with us on missions have a moment of connection: with their community and with each other.
“There are a couple of clients … who always warm my heart and reset my perspective—it’s a real blessing."- Karen Cross
How You Can Join the Mission
Teams are always welcome, but not necessary to join this mission. There are many hats a volunteer can wear:
Deliver meals – Join us for 30–45 minutes during your lunch hour (or substitute when able) to bring hot meals and human connection.
Deliver groceries – Support clients who can’t get to the store by delivering staples and perishables to their door through our Groceries to Go or HOPE program.
Volunteer with PALS – Help deliver pet food or coordinate pet care so older adults don’t have to choose between feeding themselves and their companions.
Office & administrative support – Use your skills in scheduling, data entry, communications, or organizing to support operations behind the scenes.
If you have any special skills and want to contribute in a way not listed, please reach out to our volunteer recruitment team at volunteerwithus@mowctx.org. There are many ways you can contribute here at MOWCTX!
The Need Is Great — Sign Up Today
With federal funding uncertain, program cuts looming, and low-income older adult neighbors depending on us, we urgently need more volunteers. The more volunteers we have, the more resilient our safety net becomes.
If you can spare an hour, your gift matters. Sign up now to volunteer with Meals on Wheels Central Texas through TMEA’s volunteer page.
Let’s keep delivering not just meals, but dignity, hope, and community—together.
Looking for a way to give back with your company? From Adopt-A-Days to workplace giving, Meals on Wheels Central Texas offers a range of corporate partner opportunities. Click below to explore and find the right partnership opportunity for your company.
