Source: The Monmouth Journal
More than two dozen individuals, groups and organizations were honored at the annual Volunteer Appreciation gala hosted by the Recreation Department of the Care One at King James Care Center.
Recreation Director Cathy Kane said of each of the honorees, “Your dedication to our residents is nothing short of remarkable. The residents are blessed to have so many that share the interaction we all need with members of our community. Thank you for making time for the residents of this facility, your talents, your friendship and most of all for caring enough to give of yourselves.”
Administrator Mark Serrano praised all the volunteers, noting how vital their talents and time are to complete the homelike atmosphere of the care center and to add to the amount of activities and entertainment the recreation department always provides.
Honored as groups who participate on a regular basis bringing entertainment and events to the residents were the Vince Lombardi Council of the Knights of Columbus, the longest serving volunteer group at Care One, providing barbecues annually, along with other parties, food and flowers; a trio of Visiting Ladies, Marylin Cosby, Daisy Davis, Georgette Thomas, Robyn Keys and Norma Smith; the Highlands Community Singers, the Wednesday Night Bible Story Readers Corrine Beers, Geno Pipitone, Zach Lujan and Evelyn Thomas; St. Our Lady of Perpetual Help/St. Agnes parish, Faith Fellowship Church, Kelly Dance Loft, and the Rumson Far Haven Public School system.
Individuals honored for their volunteerism included the Craig Bahrs Family, Michael St. Amour, who frequently visits the center as a stilted tall man in a variety of themed costumes for every holiday; Emily Fitzpatrick and Megan Conlon who visit the residents and say the Rosary with them on a regular basis, Pat Fowler, who conducts regular bingo games, Virginia Ligot who offers help in myriad of ways wherever needed; Bob Prochnik, who shows up simply to make residents laugh and enjoy company and Jay Cohen and Dom and Lyn Zarilllo who come from Ocean County to volunteer with Jay’s wife, Karen, and her recreational programs.
Also honored were staff members Kitty Wheeler and Karen Cohen who had just been named NJ Activity Professionals of the Year by the NJAP Association.
The recreation director also honored the four-legged visitors who come with their owners to interact with residents. Jacki was accompanied by Paul and Donna Worth and Bennie, known as the Gentle Giant, by Robert Micieli.
“We’re grateful for all our volunteers and can always use more,” Kane said, noting “volunteers are always needed at night when activity staff is not here for most units. Many residents enjoy an activity or entertainment after dinner or simply conversation. Persons interested in volunteering can contact Cathy Kane at 732-291-3400.