SeniorAdultServices.org

ANNOUNCING OUR VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR

"Volunteering is one of the most important ways we can give back to our communities.  When you become
a volunteer you find emotional rewards that can only be achieved by spreading good will and spending time
making life a little easier for another.  And, of course we are always ready to welcome new people who would
like to enrich their own lives and that of others." -- Mary Joiner, SAS Executive Director.

SAS recently held its annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at the Dr. Pepper-Stars Center in Farmers Branch. This year's theme was Venetian and guests were greeted by gondoliers with music provided by violinist Henry Lee and the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra and enjoyed a delicious buffet prepared by Palio’s..

(L to R) Councilman Herb Weidinger, Carrollton Mayor Becky Miller, Volunteer of the Year Jim Rice,
SAS Board Chairman John Roppollo and SAS Executive Director Mary Joiner

The honor of Volunteer of the Year was bestowed on Jim Rice, who has given his time to the Transportation program since 2001. Although SAS has a lift van, there are many more requests for rides than can be provided, and individual volunteers use their own vehicles to meet this need. While some drive only occasionally, Jim, accompanied by his dog, Jasper, has consistently gone beyond his volunteer commitment for over six years. One senior Jim drives to dialysis 3 times a week said,“Jim is a wonderful man, entertains me while we drive to my appointments, and truly lives his faith.” 

The 4th grade classes at Mary Immaculate School were recognized as Group Volunteer of 2007 for preparing and delivering annual special food baskets to seniors at home. 

Accepting the Corporate Volunteer of the Year award on behalf of Accor North America was Gretchen Grennell. Initiating a “release time” program, Accor executives enable their employees to deliver meals 3 times a month, which they have done since 2004.

All the 2007 Volunteer of the Year Nominee with Exec Dir, Mary Joiner and Dir of Volunteers, Gayle Collins

Individuals from each department were also recognized, including:  

• Richard Ramsay, Home Repair volunteer who has specialized in wheelchair ramps
• Marion Rice, who revived the Friendly Visitor - Tele Friend program
• Lois Lescovitz, Administration volunteer, has been with SAS since 1987
• Gloria Davidchik, Case Management volunteer visits seniors to help determine their available resources
• Char Ferguson, an active volunteer in Home Delivered Meals for 24 years
• Susan Wilder received a special award as “Rookie of the Year”

Although we only hold an appreciation luncheon once a year, Senior Adult Services is grateful to each and every volunteer that gives their time and energy to help us meet the changing needs of  seniors in our community.

We are fortunate to have such wonderful and caring volunteers.  If you would like to become a volunteer or would like more information on volunteer opportunities, please click here...

	Gloria Davidchik Case Management Volunteer	Char Ferguson Home Delivered Meals	Lois Lescovitz Administrative Volunteer	Richard Ramsey Home Repair
	Jim Rice Volunteer of the Year!	Marion Rice Friendly Visitor Tele-Friend	Susan Wilder "Rookie of the Year"
	Volunteers enjoy the luncheon and music Having some fun!
	Special thanks to Palio's Pizza Cafe for preparing the lunch for this event. Palio's is located at 1016 E. Hebron Parkway at Old Denton 214-483-7555