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Her duties include facilitating programs for area senior citizens and overseeing Ann Lemke, the volunteer coordinator.

The R.O.S.E. Center allows elderly residents to stay in their homes longer and live independently. "I would like to see the program grow. There are a lot of people in the area not being served that should be," Weinke said.

The center, which started two years ago, has about 50 volunteers serving more than 400 senior citizens this year, said Weinke. In 2000, 110 volunteers put in 840 hours of volunteer service, helping 273 senior citizens.

Volunteers provide transportation to doctor appointments or shopping, do yard maintenance, home maintenance, light housekeeping, read to the elderly, or just make friendly visits or take them on outings to a restaurant or park.

"The program allows the elderly to get out and have some social contact, rather than being shut in at home," Weinke said.

Weinke's goals are to widen the program, reaching out to community churches and organizations in order for them to get to know more about the R.O.S.E. Center.

"The possibilities are endless," Weinke said. "I'm excited about all the things we can do to help them stay in their homes and to boost their confidence."

Weinke is at the R.O.S.E. Center on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. People can always leave a message at 320-243-5144.

Weinke and her husband, Ron, moved back to Paynesville a year and a half ago. A former school teacher, she has taught school in Monticello and Maple Lake.

A 1982 graduate of Paynesville High School, Weinke said it's great to be back in Paynesville. "I love the position," Weinke said. "It has flexible hours, and I get to serve and meet a lot of great people." Weinke takes over for Karlene Gray, who resigned.

The Weinkes have three teenagers. Her interests include volunteering at Nordland Lutheran Church, surfing the Internet, walking, and traveling.