Homepage
-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information Caregivers deserve care - a new group to help provide it
From the Director: An alternative to the
governor's Plan
Budget Cuts & Councils on Aging
Helen
Vanasse, Community Service Volunteer of the Year
Yvette
Bastow, Money Management Volunteer of the Year
Nutrition Volunteer of the Year
Jim Smith, SHINE Volunteer of the Year Award
Elder Services welcomes new volunteers
Elder Services celebrates National Volunteer Week
Francesca Byrne, Ombudsman Volunteer
Winner
Trainings offered to volunteers
A call to Action for elders
Elder Services celebrates National Volunteer Week
By Angela Fields, Supervisor of Volunteer Services
On April 30, Elder Services will recognize and celebrate the efforts of over 400 of their volunteers at the Crowne Plaza in Pittsfield. "Volunteers Have Hearts of Gold" is this year’s theme.
Elder Services’ volunteers are civic minded and caring people who serve the senior population in many ways, such as providing transportation, shopping, companionship, and money management, (helping people budget and pay their monthly bills). In addition, nutrition volunteers help serve meals at congregate sites and deliver meals; ombudsmen visit and check on nursing home residents and SHINE counselors assist Medicare eligible elders navigate through the health insurance process.
The evening will begin with Vivian Rodowicz at the piano, followed by Bill Kudlate singing the National Anthem a cappella and Dermot Sporbert presenting the American Flag. After dinner, Elder Services Executive Director Robert Dean will thank the volunteers and let them know how appreciative Elder Services is of the valuable role volunteers play in older people’s lives.
A highlight of the evening will be the awards presentation, which will differ from years past. The title of the award for outstanding Volunteers is now "Volunteers of the Year in Honor of Tom Kelly." Tom Kelly exemplified the true spirt of volunteerism. Karen Reilly, President of the Board of Directors, will present the commendations to Helen Vanasse, Community Services; Yvette Bastow, Money Management; Myrtle Mercier, Nutrition; Francesca Byrne, Ombudsman; and James Smith, SHINE. Congratulations to all!
Elder Services would also like to acknowledge the RSVP volunteers who provide office help and the Berkshire Senior TV crew who assists monthly with the production of informative shows. Also, welcome to two new volunteer programs. The Special Companion volunteers who visit isolated older residents, and volunteers who provide minor maintenance and home repairs in North Berkshire County.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has..."stated Margaret Mead. Thank you, each and every one of you!