Children spending part of vacation volunteering at Manor of Plains

    Since school let out, six local youths have chosen to spend a part of their valued summer vacation visiting residents and helping staff members at the Presbyterian Manor of the Plains.
    This active and wellness community, located in Dodge City, provides living facilities and health care for more than 100 elderly individuals.
    Ashley Millershaski, a 12-year-old student at Sacred Heart, spends two or three days a week at the Manor. One of her favorite activities is shuffling cards for Helen, a resident of Manor of the Plains who enjoys playing solitaire with as many as 15 decks of cards at a time.
    "I learned how to play solitaire just by watching her play," Millershaski said.
    Matt Walker, a 12-year-old who has also volunteered at the Humane Society, said he enjoys walking a dog named Sugar for one of the residents. Walker also reads to residents and helps with meals and planned activities.
    All of the volunteers have taken time to share stories with residents, read them their mail, play card games, help put puzzles together and assist with ice cream socials and outings. 
    Reuben Soltero, a 7-year-old who will begin second grade in the fall, enjoys volunteering alongside his older brother, 11-year-old Alex Soltero.
    "I pass the candy out at bingo," Reuben said. "I also like to clean the tables after lunch."
    Alex and Reuben said they love talking to Hans Nielson, whom they call Junior, because he tells them stories about his time in the military during World War II. He also tells them about the hog farm he ran in Jetmore for more than 20 years.
    Tommy Andrews, the newest volunteer at the Manor, said he enjoys doing "anything anyone needs," such as moving furniture and setting up for events.
    Andrews and a few of the other kids have also spent a lot of time in the Manor's garden this summer. As a result, they're learning how to plant and care for cucumbers, tomatoes, green beans, peppers, watermelons and strawberries.
    Lisa Montoya, activities director for independent and assisted living, said having the kids volunteer this summer has been a big help.
    "Everyone loves having them around," she said. "They're also going to help us with the Chuckwagon Breakfast during Dodge City Days."
    Jamie Soltero, who is visiting from Oklahoma this summer, said her favorite part of volunteering was helping with a bridal show that the Manor hosted. She has also enjoyed helping her sister, Jacque Soltero, lead exercise activities.
    All of the children said they will continue volunteering at the Manor, even after they start school in August.
    "I would come back after this summer because we are helping a lot of people," Jamie said.

Reach Cherise Forno at (620) 408-9931 or e-mail her at t.cherise.forno@dodgeglobe.com.