Betty Rutz, 96, of Vandalia, originally of Benton Harbor, is a long-time volunteer at the Cass County Council on Aging.

What do you do as a volunteer at the COA?

Well, I like to line dancing at the COA and I like to go to the different classes. So, I like to help with line dancing and moving things around and answering questions. I also bring some people in and show them around. The people I brought in [Monday] were so impressed. One of them was a nurse, and she said that she had almost never seen a place that was as nice as this and so well staffed.

How long have you been a volunteer at the COA?

Off and on for about 20 years. It’s been off and on since we moved out here. I’ve done different things over the years, just little things I can do to help out.

What do like about volunteering?

You get to meet so many nice people, and the people here [at the COA] are so nice to work with.

Why do you think it is important for residents to volunteer in their communities?

We need volunteers everywhere, and it is so nice that people take advantage of the opportunities that we have, from the COA to the VFW and all sorts of places like that. [Volunteers] can help spread the word about these places if nothing else, so that people can continue to take advantage of these opportunities.

How would you encourage others to volunteer?

Volunteering is good for you. You really get to meet people and go to different places and do different things. It is very good for both your mind and your body.