It’s no secret that volunteers and their work drive a community.
On Saturday, one of the most recognizable service providers in Northern Blair County will honor their volunteers with a Volunteer Appreciation Celebration.
“We at Epworth Manor recognize the importance of our volunteers and their commitment to bring happiness to our residents,” said Robin Stern, executive director at Epworth Manor. “This celebration is just a small expression of our appreciation to the volunteers for the countless hours of service they provide.”
According to officials at Epworth, nearly 200 young people and adults gave, unselfishly, more than 12,000 hours of service during the past year. They will be recognized by the residents, staff and administrators at the celebration, which begins at 2 p.m.
The theme of the celebration is: “Volunteers Put a Smile in Your Heart.”
Carol Ayers, volunteer coordinator, explained that volunteers at Epworth Manor provide a variety of services such as transporting residents to special treatments and programs, assisting the beautician and barber, filling water mugs and assisting residents at mealtime.
In addition, the volunteers work in the gift shop and the greenhouse. They also mend clothing, deliver mail, distribute snacks, provide special music, conduct Bible study sessions, create floral arrangements, accompany residents on shopping trips, serve special resident and family meals and assist with other activities.
“These special people bring love, laughter, reassuring hugs and companionship to our residents,” said Stern, “and we are very grateful for the differences they make in the lives of our residents.”
Ayers, who will present tokens of appreciation to each volunteer at the celebration, explained that both adults and young people give their time to Epworth residents. Some of the young people are part of the Health Tech program, the middle school junior high student council and the honor society of the Tyrone Area High School.
“We look forward to honoring our volunteers,” said Ayers. “It will be a special afternoon for all of us here at Epworth Manor.”
Anyone who is interested in making a difference in the life of someone by serving as a volunteer at Epworth Manor should contact Ayers at 684-0320, extension 2537, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays, and from a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays.
