Del Mar Community Connections names Marilyn Carpenter ‘Volunteer of the Month’ for May

Marilyn Carpenter, an avid volunteer and resident of Del Mar for 23 years, has been named Volunteer of the Month for May by Del Mar Community Connections.

Marilyn Carpenter

(Courtesy)

Carpenter, a a former business owner, serves as bus host for DMCC’s Sassy Chassis. DMCC Program Director Ashley Simpkins said, “she immediately developed close connections with the seniors who ride the van to get their groceries. She often brings them small treats and makes it her business to ensure that all their needs are met. Since DMCC pandemic response efforts have begun, she has been regularly calling the riders to check in on them.”

A short version of Carpenter’s volunteer resume includes medical work for homeless, Hospice, American Cancer Society and Voices for Children. Currently, she also volunteers for the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) in emergency response. Carpenter notes, “I am a fortunate person and as such feel a responsibility to ‘give back’ in some small manner as a thank-you for all the blessings and opportunities that have come my way.”

DMCC bus hosts help non-driving seniors to get on and off the Sassy Chassis, help to organize and carry purchases, and assist the driver in finding directions and wrangling the passengers. Bus hosts are an essential part of DMCC transportation services, and they enjoy the conversation and group setting on the van. Carpenter says she enjoys “the amazing people I have met and continue to encounter in this wonderful community of Del Mar. I’m so happy to be a part of the DMCC team!”

Although the grocery van program has been put on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it will be resumed as soon as feasible, Simpkins said.