Colette Scott, of Niles, has served the Niles Salvation Army since 2003. She first came to the organization when she needed food. After receiving a helping hand, she said she quickly saw an opportunity to give back to those who had aided her.

Since then, she has helped wherever the organization most needs it, including working at the front desk, the kitchen, food pantry to teaching Vacation Bible School. During the holidays, she helps as a bell ringer and raises money for those in need.

How did you get involved as a volunteer?

I came down to [the Niles Salvation Army] to get some food and I just asked if they needed help for volunteering. I am on disability and they said, ‘sure, when can you start?’ I said, ‘I can start tomorrow.’

How does it feel to give back to the organization that helped you in a time of need?

I love it. I love helping other people. I can’t work. People won’t hire me because of my epilepsy disability, so I just like volunteering here.

What would you say you get out of your volunteer work?

I get a lot of joy and I meet new faces. I get to tell other people about God. I get a lot of wisdom out of it, too, from other people. A lot of people share their wisdom with me.

What would you say is your favorite part of volunteering?

I think I enjoy bell ringing the most. I help six days a week for four to five hours a night. I meet new people and get to say, ‘hi’ to the children and parents and tell them about the programs that we have. It puts a smile on my face.

Why did you decide to volunteer at the Salvation Army?

My husband and I had just moved here and we live right around the corner. Somebody told me about the Salvation Army. I did not know of any other place to go to get help.

Why would you encourage other people to volunteer?

I guess I would encourage other people to volunteer for friendship and fellowship. I do not come down here just to volunteer. I also come down here to eat lunch and I get a lot of fellowship from other people. That way they can tell other people about Jesus and tell them what the Salvation Army does. [If they knew] they would really love it.