Serving military

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Everything offered to the veterans is free. In addition to more formalized programs, such as gas cards for those who need them, Houser has seen numerous situations where unique help is needed. A veteran might need help with the scorekeeping. She put together the ladders for the competitions. She does volunteering for Visiting Nurses as well.”

This year’s senior games start June 5. Anelle said the number of activities were too many to list, including Wii bowling and axe throwing. More than 50 activities are listed on the center’s website. This is the 44th annual event; everyone is welcome to register by visiting fortwayneparks.org.

“As far as the senior games, there’s a whole plethora of activities, like pickleball. They have things for folks who aren’t so physically able. There’s quite a variety of activities. The nice thing about this is it’s a chance for those who wish to sign up and do something they’ve never done before. You don’t have to feel with their plumbing or their vehicle may need repair so they can have transportation. Other veterans and community volunteers have come to the rescue in such circumstances.

The ministry provides free counseling to military families. Typically, while the intimidated about your skill level,” Anelle said.

For the Anelles, enjoying an activity and meeting others takes precedence over who wins or loses, and at the senior games, a spirit of fun and friendly sport is what prevails.

His wife will be helping guide people in the walking event for the senior games.

“She keeps everybody on course,” he said. “She’s also helping with bocce ball. There are also social aspects to it. There’s a cookout at the end and an opening day breakfast.”

The Anelles enjoy an active lifestyle. In addition to going to the community center a few times a week, they also golf once a week in season. He joked his wife doesn’t like to go if it’s too hot or too cold.

“We both have member- husband and wife are being counseled in-house, this leaves children needing separate attention. So, someone will read to the children and might have therapy dogs for them to enjoy.

The ministry also provides free small group gatherings, ships to the YMCA,” he said. “I try to get over there to use the equipment when I can. Cornhole and shuffleboard are not real strenuous.”

Bible studies and individual training opportunities for “Home Front Heroes,” typically for wives of the military service members.

Houser said the needs are ongoing.

“The National Guard and reserves have been sent over- seas for a year in the last five or 10 years. It’s hard on families,” Houser said.WORKING WEEKLY — These LMVFM volunteers meet weekly and work together on various needs the organization has, such as working with address labels and newsletters.