100-Year-Old WWII Vet Mel Brooks Still Delivers Meals on Wheels Weekly
At 100 years old, Mel Brooks remains a dedicated volunteer for Meals on Wheels in Colorado. The World War II veteran has spent over 40 years delivering meals to homebound seniors, showing no plans to stop anytime soon. His commitment highlights the vital role of volunteers in supporting elderly residents across the state.
Mel Brooks first began volunteering with Meals on Wheels decades ago, long before he stopped driving five years back. Now, every Monday morning, he continues his rounds with the help of his sons, John and Jim. The routine keeps him active—a principle he lives by, often saying his secret to longevity is simply to 'keep moving'.
Volunteers of America Colorado oversees the state's Meals on Wheels programme, preparing and delivering nearly 3,000 meals daily across seven counties. Hundreds of local volunteers like Brooks ensure seniors receive not just food, but also a moment of human connection. For many recipients, Brooks may be the only person they see all day, a responsibility he finds deeply rewarding.
Brooks served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II before working for the U.S. Postal Service for 34 years. Yet, he insists that giving his time means more than giving money. His decades of service reflect a broader trend: in Germany, similar programmes rely on an estimated 300,000 volunteers, though no exact nationwide count exists. Organisations like Caritas, Diakonie, and the Red Cross run over 1,000 local volunteering initiatives, proving how essential community support remains for elderly care.
Mel Brooks' story underscores the impact of long-term volunteering on both givers and receivers. His weekly deliveries, made possible by family support, ensure meals and companionship reach those who need it most. As demand for such services grows, volunteers like him remain the backbone of programmes keeping seniors connected and cared for.
