Press Release

Masonicare at Newtown Honors Its Many Volunteers in Celebration of National Volunteer Week - 5/4/2009

Newtown, Connecticut, May 4, 2009 .....  In celebration of National Volunteer Week, and in keeping with an annual tradition, Masonicare at Newtown recently hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner in the Lodge Room.  The festive event was held to thank the many volunteers from all walks of life and age groups who freely give their time and talent for the benefit of the residents and patients of Masonicare at Newtown.

President Thomas Gutner and several staff members  were pleased to honor these  outstanding volunteers who give so much to bring joy to others.  "Our mission is to do everything we can to enhance the quality of life of our residents and patients.  These wonderful volunteers, who are always so willing to lend a helping hand whenever it's needed, make it easier for us to provide that something extra.  Their contributions are very important - and truly appreciated," Mr. Gutner said.

In keeping with this year's theme, "Making a Difference...One Person at a Time," a special gift and a certificate of gratitude were presented to every volunteer, and those who have served 1,000 hours or more received a $50 gift card.  This year, this special honor was given to the following volunteers:

            Joe and Jane Misencik, Donald Treadwell, Sonja Liljengren, Teena Bell, Audrey Heim, Elizabeth Clark and Patricia Shelton. 

Junior volunteers from Fairfield Preparatory School and Newtown High School, along with several resident volunteers, were recognized as well for assisting staff and residents throughout the year with programs, events, projects, and administrative tasks. 

Alyssa Robinson and Kelsey DeCesare, both Newtown residents, were presented with a Junior Scholarship Award.  Alyssa, who is a student at Newtown High School, will be attending the University of Connecticut, and Kelsey, who currently attends Laurelton Hall High School, will attend Southern Connecticut State University. Kelsey is also a Masonicare employee on the staff in the assisted living community at Masonicare at Newtown.

Alisha Campos, Recreation Therapist and Masonicare at Newtown's Volunteer Coordinator, echoed Mr. Gutner's sentiments, summing it up this way:  "Each and every one of our volunteers, who span all age groups, is outstanding.  The exceptional dedication and time they provide to us is priceless.  Everyone brings something unique and very special to the table. We couldn't do it without them."

Penny O'Neill
Public Relations Manager
Masonicare
203-679-5041
poneill@masonicare.org
www.masonicare.org

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