Veteran serves hotdogs at Phoenix center

Robert Lane serves hotdogs and nachos at the Desert West Senior Center in the Maryvale neighborhood of Phoenix. He is there Monday through Friday, from morning until late afternoon, providing practical help to seniors who have few other resources.

Lane enlisted in the Army in the late 1970s, shortly after the Vietnam War ended. He participated in Operation Babylift, an effort that involved feeding Vietnamese women and babies at Fort Smith, Arkansas. Lane said that experience started a pattern of feeding people that continues today.

He has been a regular at the center for nearly four years. His work is part of the Senior Companion Program, an AmeriCorps Seners service run through Northern Arizona University. Beyond serving food, Lane takes seniors grocery shopping and drives them to doctor appointments.

Lane’s wife, Synthia, inspired him to begin volunteering. She is also a fixture at the center, usually working in the office while her husband engages with residents on the floor. Synthia described the couple’s plan to stay involved until they are "totally out of it." She said they are not ready to give up yet.

Daniel Flores, a senior at the center, spoke in Spanish about Lane’s impact. Flores said Lane is a huge source of encouragement who lifts their spirits and helps them a lot. Lane has picked up some Spanish during his time there because many of the seniors only speak that language.

Lane occasionally performs as Elvis for the crowd. He quoted the song "Hound Dog" to describe the atmosphere. Lane said making the seniors laugh and seeing the joy on their faces is what it is all about, especially for those with nobody at home.

The center remains open to the public in the Maryvale neighborhood. Lane continues his daily routine of socializing and assisting residents as part of his volunteer commitment.