Volunteer Corner

Published 12:00 am Monday, October 18, 2004

Grandfather spreads the Word

By SUE ELLEN ROSS

Staff Reporter

LAPLACE – Leroy Keys knows the importance of patience and understanding, and he takes them both into his community volunteer work.

The LaPlace resident visits the Twin Oaks Nursing Home and the St. John Correctional Center on a regular basis to offer a spiritual lift through the word of God. He also visits local hospitals when time permits.

Ministering to the residents of the nursing home and the inmates at the correctional center brings him a special joy.

“These people need to feel they belong, that they are worth something,” he said.

Since retiring from the United States Army, Keys said he looks at things a little differently. “I know how to understand people more,” he said. “I can see their needs.” He attributes this to his own spirituality that has developed over the years.

Dianne Keys frequently accompanies her husband on his visits. “I try my best to be on his side,” she said.

Although their days are busy, Keys and his wife also plan quality time with their children – Jeffrey and Ricky Keys; Yolanda Martin; and Hardell and Darin Mack. The couple also has five grandchildren.

Advice to those wanting to start volunteer work is to be aware that your offerings of help may not always be met with open arms, he said. “From time to time, you have to expect that not everyone is going to be receptive to your efforts.”

Some people don’t want to be bothered, he added. These persons may be having a bad day, in physical pain, or other variables. So the rejection shouldn’t be taken personally. Giving to others is still the way to go, he added.

“It’s important to do this (give of your time) because there are so many people who depend on volunteers,” he said. “Letting someone know you care can make a difference in their life. I feel as if I am doing a justice to them by supporting them.”

And although people may not outwardly show their thanks or gratitude, Keys said you can tell in many other ways. “You can see by the smile on their faces or the look in their eyes,” he said.

Keys is a member of the New Home Ministry in LaPlace and the Disabled Veterans Organization.