Winford (Mac) McElroy – March 2019 Volunteer

Several years ago, I learned of the Faith in Action service from Linda Crowley at St John’s Lutheran Church.  More drivers were needed and I attended the class to learn about the responsibilities and requirements of the group.  I became a driver and soon learned that my small convertible was not the best mode of transportation for our clients who used a wheelchair or walker so I decided to quit driving.
While attending Illinois Wesleyan, I took a course in lettering and have enjoyed calligraphy ever since. When I worked in retailing, window and display signs were needed but not always furnished by suppliers, so I had to make them myself.  After retiring in 1994, I had more time to pursue my hobby.
In addition to making our family Christmas cards for the past 65 years, I began lettering the Baptism and Wedding certificates for church, addressed envelopes for weddings, lettered certificates of appreciation for organizations and lettered place-cards for many groups.
Dave Nybakke, who helps in the FIA office, knew of my calligraphy hobby, asked if I would be willing to letter the FIA achievement certificates and I happily accepted.  I enjoy doing this but I’m too old to be rushed.  My work suffers if I am tired or get in a hurry.
I have lived in Bloomington/Normal for over 80 years except for the eighteen months I served in the Army.  Upon returning from Korea I worked in retailing for eighteen years and then worked in Mortgage lending for twenty years.
Faith in Action is a much needed organization in any community especially ours.  We have many retirees who need the services offered by this group.
I have always tried to do my best in bringing my time and talents to where and when it is needed.
— Mac McElroy

We asked Mac to show us some of his work so we could share it in the newsletter.  He is an extremely talented man!