Bob Benner is a 'Professional Volunteer'

Name:  Bob Benner

Age:  69

Family and home:  He has two daughters—one is a doctor at Lehigh Valley Hospital and the other owns a jewelry store. He lives in Upper Milford.

Occupation:  “I am retired. I have worked as a stonemason, military police while in the army, executive security at Bethlehem Steel, a hotel manager and a jeweler. For the past 14 years I have been a professional volunteer.”

Name of organizations:  “I volunteer at Macungie Memorial Park, Old Zionsville UCC, Allentown Fairgrounds, Trinity soup kitchen in Bethlehem, St. Andrews Church in Allentown and I help some of my neighbors.”

Describe what you do:  “At the UCC, I cook for their fall and spring dinners. I am a gate supervisor at the fairgrounds and at the soup kitchen I cook on Thanksgiving and Christmas. I help St. Andrew's with its maintenance and when I have time, I help five of my neighbors with maintenance at their homes.

“And at Macungie Park I cook at the refreshment stand for all the shows and whenever else I am needed. I am busy almost every weekend there. I love Macungie.  It’s a wonderful town with a wonderful park. I showed my cars for years at the park. Two years ago I was asked to help at the refreshment stand and I really enjoy it.”

Why do you volunteer?  “I get a feeling of accomplishment after I help out.  The Lord blessed me with good health, so why not help others.  Giving back is a rewarding part of my life. I am thrilled that I can contribute, by the will of God, a small part of myself to help others in need.”

Is there anything else you are involved in?  “I give lectures to historical societies, schools, the masons, churches, and organizations about the Indians who used to live and roam on this land. I have collected Indian artifacts for   57 years. I don’t charge for my lectures — I do it for the love of Indians.”

How can someone get involved with this group if they want?  “To get involved with Macungie Park, just call the office and someone will assign you to an area.”