Dale Vollenweider, longtime AUI performer, is spending his retirement giving back to the community and country that he loves. Not only has Dale been performing hundreds of concerts for AUI audiences since his retirement six years ago; he also devotes a significant amount of time serving on a Red Cross disaster team.
Dale’s history with AUI began long before his retirement. “My father was living in an assisted living center in Fort Wayne,” he said. “He always looked forward to AUI performances. I had played the piano recreationally, and I thought that when I retired, that was something I could do.”
For Dale, performing for AUI is all about bringing sunshine into people’s worlds. And that’s exactly what he does through over 600 songs in his repertoire, everything from traditional jazz and showtunes from the 1920s and 30s and swing tunes from the 1940s all the way to Elvis, and everything in between.
“The first half of the show is typically show tunes,” he said, “followed by sing a longs—it’s important for me to include songs from people’s childhoods that really touch their hearts.”
Dale’s musical journey began in grade school, but he took a break when he was working full time and raising his own children. “When my kids moved out,” he said, “I picked up music again. I knew retirement was coming, and I would need something to provide fulfillment in my life.”
Dale found that fulfillment by giving back to others. “Whenever someone comes up after my set and says how much they connected with my music, it’s so nice to know that I’m making an impact. That’s what keeps me coming back.”
Dale also finds meaning in his role as a Red Cross volunteer. He has traveled to Florida to provide relief after Hurricane Debbie and has trekked as far as Hawaii, helping those impacted from the wildfires. “Each role, AUI performer and Red Cross volunteer, represent two sides of the same coin,” he said. “Through each, I’m bringing a ray of sunshine into people’s worlds. That, and staying out of mischief!”
Seeking your own bit of sunshine? Visit his Facebook page, Afternoon Romance, for a quick pick-me-up and large dose of encouragement! Thank you, Dale, for serving in all the ways you do!
