MANSFIELD — Philip DeVoe has dedicated his golden years to taking care of other seniors.
The Mansfield man has made it his mission to help those in need by collecting, cleaning and redistributing donated medical equipment and supplies, all at no cost to the recipient. Over the last four or five years, he’s helped hundreds of elderly community members access items like beds, lift chairs, scooters and walkers.
“A lot of them will actually break down and cry and give me a big hug and thank me for what we do,” said DeVoe, who serves as vice president of the Mansfield Shriners. “So that’s my reward.”
DeVoe often does this work in partnership with the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, which helps connect him with donors as well as people in need.
The agency recently recognized DeVoe for his efforts by naming him AAA5’s Advocate of the Year.
”Bill’s reliability, generosity, and unwavering commitment to service have made him an invaluable partner — so much so that AAA5 proudly lists him in our resource guide,” said said Alicia Blackledge, AAA5’s Chief of Community Living.
“Bill’s efforts to reflect the true spirit of advocacy: seeing challenges, removing barriers, and lending a hand without hesitation.”
DeVoe was one of several honorees recognized Tuesday by the AAA5 during its annual meeting.
“I want to thank everyone here for the kindness they’ve shown for helping me help elderly people,” DeVoe said during the ceremony. “We gave away 100 hospital beds away last year from a nursing home that helped so many people and that fills my heart.”
“Anything I can do, it warms my heart. I get more out of it than you can imagine,” DeVoe added. “As long as the Lord keeps me here, I’m with you.”
Others local honorees included William Myers, Clint Knight and Diane Ramey.