Retired CoServ Board of Director still living our core values
AT EIGHTY-SEVEN YEARS OLD, it would be easy for Curtis Tally to slow down and enjoy the view from his living room, which overlooks the sprawling fields grown from grass seeds that were his livelihood as the owner of Justin Feed Store.
But Curtis believes wholeheartedly in giving back to the community and he shows no signs of slowing down. He wakes up every Wednesday knowing there are about a dozen residents awaiting a hot meal from Metroport Meals on Wheels.
As he’s done for the last 30 years, he climbs into his SUV, drives to a nearby restaurant to pick up food, loads up his vehicle and heads out on each route. Along the way, he strikes up conversations and brightens everyone’s day with his warm smile.
“All of them are appreciative, and I get a lot of thank yous,” Curtis said. “They say ‘I’m so glad you guys do this.’ They’re glad to see someone.”
Curtis is also quick to point out that, “I’m older than most of them.” He seems to defy age with how easily he gets around, but if you ask him, he says, “I’m so blessed.”
Curtis spent 22 years on the CoServ Electric Board of Directors where he made key decisions and contributions that live on to this day. That includes bringing the concept of Operation Roundup to the CoServ Charitable Foundation (CCF) after learning about it at an electric cooperative conference.
Earlier this year, in a full-circle moment, CCF awarded a $10,000 Operation Roundup grant to Metroport Meals on Wheels to help the organization purchase meals for clients.
Mary King, executive director of Metroport Meals on Wheels, said grants like the one CCF awarded are critical for them to accomplish their mission.
Former CoServ Board Member, 87-year-old Curtis Tally, delivering meals to CoServ Members in the Justin community for the Metroport Meals On Wheels in Roanoke.
“We do all kinds of fundraising, but the grants are a huge part of what we do,” Mary said.
Metroport also relies on its gracious restaurant partners to serve their clients. Rather than having a central kitchen, restaurants prepare the meals at a discount five days a week. Curtis, for example, stopped by Snooty Pig Café in Argyle, which provides meals for Justin and Argyle recipients.
“It’s a delightful treat. I had a stroke last July. I’m getting better but my left side doesn’t function well,” said Connie Drannon, a CoServ Member in Justin. “I don’t cook for myself. It is so nice to have a hot meal.”
His last stop was 90-year-old Elinor Currie, a longtime Justin resident and CoServ Member.
“I’m going blind. I can’t see to do the stuff I used to do,” Elinor said. “I do the best I can.”
She relies on a voice-activated microwave to heat up food and, despite the vision challenges, she’s grateful, “I have all my faculties, so far.”
As he headed home, Curtis said he’s grateful that everyone on his route is safe.
CoServ is proud to have a long-time Director who still embodies CoServ’s Core Values, including our dedication to service.
Thanks to Curtis, Metroport Meals on Wheels and CoServ Members and Customers who participate in Operation Roundup, these residents will continue to receive much-needed assistance.