Super Senior Day Honors hard-working, dedicated volunteers
Super Senior Day at North Shore Senior Center (NSSC) recently celebrated the achievements of 25 volunteer nominees from North Suburban organizations.
The prestigious honor of "Super Senior" was awarded to Jim Ahtes, Northbrook, and the special guest of honor was Vivian Mitchel, Morton Grove.
"After a four-year hiatus we were thrilled to bring back Super Senior Day, originated in 1974. Nominees from 25 organizations gathered to celebrate these hardworking, passionate volunteers who make giving back a priority, while also strengthening our organizations," said Tish Rudnicki, executive director, NSSC.
In a tradition during Super Senior Day, the seventh-grade class of Saint Faith, Hope & Charity, Winnetka, volunteered their time to serve the nominees lunch, making it an intergenerational event.
Meet Super Senior of the Year Jim Ahtes, who joined NSSC in 2010
Ahtes is one of the NSSC's most dedicated and respected volunteers, and possibly, its greatest ambassador - enthusiastically raising awareness in the community about all the activities and services NSSC has to offer.
Always eager to lend a hand to benefit NSSC, Ahtes currently serves as a member of the board of directors' Marketing and Development committee, the Tuesday Club, and its Program Planning committee.
Ahtes also served as president of the Tuesday Club for 18 months. During his tenure, he helped coordinate a joint research project with NSSC's computer group and the Hadley School for the Blind.
He continues to oversee the Open Lab, where participants can seek free help with their smartphones, laptops and tablets every Friday morning.
"The most motivating factor is knowing, from so many smiles, that I can make a positive difference in someone else's life," Ahtes said.
"To help others in finding a place to volunteer, remember that it is all about them, not us. Their smiles and gratitude constantly remind us that we can do truly good things," he added.
On a personal note, Rudnicki added, "On top of all of that he does, Jim is a kind, thoughtful human being."
Meet Special Guest of Honor Vivian Mitchel, Longtime NSSC employee and volunteer
Vivian worked at NSSC in Lifelong Learning for 22 years and coordinated the event for as long.
"Her mother was an honoree in 1982 for her volunteer work at Oakton Community College. Super Senior Day has always had a special place in her heart, so it felt good to honor her," Rudnicki pointed out.
"I suggest individuals look for a volunteer opportunity where they can provide value to an organization, support its resources, and make the world a little better place. I think people who volunteer in return will receive a feeling of warmth, accomplishment, and happiness," Mitchel said, who continues to volunteer at NSSC.
About North Shore Senior Center
Headquartered in Northfield, North Shore Senior Center (NSSC) is a nationally accredited 501(c) (3) organization that serves older adults from the most independent to those needing more support. NSSC serves and engages more than 24,000 older adults and their families each year throughout Chicago's Northern suburbs. NSSC offers a comprehensive suite of services including a wide array of social services, specialized care for people living with dementia, therapy and counseling, personal money management services, educational and wellness programs, and volunteer opportunities.
Visit: www.NSSC.org or call (847) 784-6000 to learn more.