Three Advocate Lutheran General Hospital's employees and a physician received awards for supporting people with Down syndrome

On June 17, UPS for DownS held a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner where three of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital's employees and a physician were recipients of the "Commitment to Excellence" award.

UPS for DownS is a non-profit organization offering support, education, and encouragement for families and others who love persons with Down syndrome. They have lots of events for families such as: retreats, parties, concerts, and parades. UPS for DownS even offer scholarships to help give the young people the opportunity to pursue their life goals such as pursuing educational or job training opportunities beyond high school.

The four recipients were:

Dr. Erin Dominiak received the award for her dedication to the Adult Down Syndrome Center. She has volunteered her time in numerous ways such as speaking at several National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) events and at UPS for DownS meetings. She has also attended many of the UPS for DownS dinners, dances, plays, parades, and other events throughout the years. She is known for her kindness, compassion, and knowledge.

Magda Scanlan, the manager of Volunteer Services, envisioned and created volunteer opportunities in the hospital for young adults with Down syndrome. She knows each volunteer personally and her interest in each volunteer's life enriches their experiences.

Georgia Paschos, the volunteer coordinator, places, evaluates and oversees each volunteer. She makes sure that each volunteer finds the right place where they can make a contribution and be successful. She makes sure that the volunteers are supported and valued and if a challenge arises she is quick to take care of it.

Joe Zajac, cafeteria employee and supervisor, has taken several special volunteers under his wing. He connects with each one as a peer, friend, and mentor. He works side-by-side with them until they reach a level of confidence, independence, and routine. Joe goes above and beyond helping the special volunteers and in doing so creates a successful and satisfying experience.

The recipients have enriched the lives of many young adults with Down syndrome through the creation, implementation and expansion of the volunteer program at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.

For more information about Advocate Lutheran General's Adult Down Syndrome Center: http://www.advocatehealth.com/luth/downsyndromecenteradultsandteens