Dearborn Resident Stephen Gautreau Named 'Volunteer of the Year'

Stephen Gautreau knows the benefits of unselfish service to others.

“We don’t always get what we want, but by volunteering we get what we need,” he said.

That attitude and an commitment to volunteerism earned Gautreau the distinction of being named the 2013 Volunteer of the Year by the Dearborn Senior Services Division on March 13.

Gautreau was honored by Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. and congratulated by other elected officials during the annual volunteer breakfast, during which dozens of Dearborn residents were recognized for helping seniors through the Meals on Wheels program, income tax preparation, exercise classes, processing bus passes, and newsletter development.

Gautreau said the most rewarding volunteer job he has is delivering meals to homebound seniors in Dearborn.

During the breakfast, he acknowledged all the volunteers being thanked for their service.

“Without volunteers like you, Dearborn wouldn’t be the great community that it is,” Gautreau said.

He is credited with assisting on every Dearborn route in the Meals on Wheels program. His volunteer service also includes contributions at the Dearborn Historical Museum, including helping to restore the Commandant’s Quarters and the McFadden-Ross House.

Gautreau is vice president of the Dearborn Community Arts Council (DCAC), which is in charge of the Padzieski Art Gallery inside the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center. He hangs artwork and adjusts the lighting for maximum impact for each show.

Gautreau retired at 65 after working in the family pallet business. Although his schedule remains busy with his unpaid activities, he does appreciate having a little more flexibility than when he was working.

“It is great being retired,” he joked. “I can volunteer in the morning, and take a nap in the afternoon.”