Volunteers honored at Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council celebration
"Volunteers Make Our Lives Sparkle" was the theme of the Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council's 34th Annual Volunteer Recognition on Friday, May 3. Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council celebrated the achievements of the volunteers at a reception at the Cotillion in Palatine. The volunteers were delighted to share delicious hors d'oeuvres and cake, among friends.
"This year we had 282 volunteers who donated 11,723 hours of service valued at $315,225. Thank you to each and every one of you for making a difference in our community," said Donelda Danz, Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council Board chairwoman, in her address to the volunteers.
A special thank you to Friendship Village of Schaumburg, Arden Courts of Elk Grove, and Lutheran Home for their sponsorship of this event.
This year's 13 honorees were presented with a certificate of appreciation and gourmet chocolates from Morkes Chocolates:
• Jason Rothenburger: Board of Directors Award for his commitment as the treasurer of the Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council board, and helping to streamline the accounting system
• Jean Godsey: Adult Day Services Award for sharing her amazing talent at the piano, and continuing to make members sing and laugh.
• Evgeniy Elizarov: Russian Outreach Award for his connection with the Russian speaking community, and for his continuing optimism and support.
• Mel Quinn (in memoriam): Tax Volunteer Award for being a trained AARP Tax Aide counselor and all his patience and knowledge he gave to preparing tax returns for the senior community, as well as his many ways of involvement with the center for 12 years.
• Elisa Arrecis: Latino Outreach Award for her kindness to her fellow group members though home visits, transportation assistance and anything else that's needed.
• Mary Turner: General Recreation Award for her endless help in welcoming new members, consistent support, and always including everyone in the fun activities she enjoys.
• Carole Busch: Special Recreation Award for being such an important point person in helping with the Happenings mailings and her initiative for starting a Book Club.
• Jenna Dunn: Gift Shop Award for donating her time and retail skills in the Gift Shop. She is always promoting the gift shop, welcoming donations and making everything look beautiful.
• Joan Bugl: Recreation Bingo Award for always being willing to help with bingo and for helping to welcome new members to the program.
• Mary Kittler: Office Award for being such a helpful, kind, generous, and knowledgeable volunteer in the office for several years.
• Julie Stock: SHIP Volunteer Award for her knowledge with the SHIP program, Medicare counseling, prescription drug plans and more, to save seniors money.
• Orlando Magnelli: Home Delivered Meals Program Award as being one of the most appreciate drivers. He is reliable, a great communicator to seniors, and dedicated.
• Josephine Pellegrino: Congregate Award for always being willing to help pack the meals for delivery, and being a happy, outgoing person.
Established in 1973, Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council's mission is to provide programs and services which support older adults and their families by encouraging independence, well-being and connection to the community. Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council operates a multipurpose senior center offering social, nutrition, education, health, recreation, and support services to Palatine Township area residents 50 and over, and is one of only three accredited senior centers in Illinois.
For information on services, or to volunteer, visit the Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council website at www.ptscc.org or call (847) 991-1112.