Since the young age of nine months, Dolores Chelf has been a member of the Portage community. It is where she grew up, got married, and remained close to her family. Growing up in a household with her mother, grandparents, and two older brothers, Dolores developed a strong work ethic, which she continues to employ to this day.
"When I finished with school, I was the primary breadwinner in the household for many years," Chelf said. "My mother and brother were ill for many years, so the money I made helped to support everyone in the household. I worked hard and we didn't have much, but we had a lot of love."
Currently, Dolores is retired, spending her free time volunteering with the Portage Resale Shop Ministries Monday through Friday for the majority of the day. Previously, she had worked for the local employment office for many years before moving on to the older worker program.
"They only keep you so long there," Chelf laughed. "So, when I left, I tried to find more work, but it's difficult when you're past retirement age. I knew one thing, though, sitting around at home wasn't an option for me. I chose to work because it made me feel better. It gave me a purpose. I was able to give back what I can. I'm glad that I can do it and I enjoy doing it. It's much better for me to be out and about and to keep busy. I just love working there. It's such a good cause and everyone who volunteers is so nice to work with."
So, five years ago, Chelf found herself with the Portage Resale Shop Ministries, where she continues to volunteer on a full-time basis. There, she checks every book that comes into the Resale Shop. If it's worth something, she lists it on Amazon. She also catalogs all of the DVDs and CDs that come into the Resale Shop to be sold, and keeps track of the volunteers' monthly time totals.
"I love being able to see the little kids come in and pick out a toy, or being able to help a family that needs coats for the winter," Chelf said. "Knowing that everything goes to help people in need is truly special .I strongly believe in that and think we should have more of it."
In what remains of her spare time, Chelf enjoys many hobbies, including crocheting and needlework, playing solitaire, watching NCIS, taking care of her pets, and spending time with her family.