Making a Difference

The Second Annual Volunteer Recognition Reception

At every Hearth site, the residents benefit from the companionship (and meals!) of the many kind and dedicated volunteers who share their time and talents. In March Hearth recognized their many contributions at the Second Annual Volunteer Recognition Reception. The theme of this year's reception was "Essential Pieces" -- those generous groups and individuals who are essential to creating a full and meaningful community for both the residents and the staff of Hearth.

This year State Representative Anne M. Paulsen was the keynote speaker. Rep. Paulsen has a long history of advocating for housing and healthcare and is currently a member of the Human Services and Elder Affairs Committee in the State House. Rep. Paulsen shared many words of praise about the programs and mission of Hearth, and Hearth thanks her for her kind words and time.

The Exemplary Volunteer Award recognizes an  individual or group who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and support to Hearth by giving her/his time and energy for the betterment of the organization and the individuals served. Three awards were given out at this reception, one to a volunteer and two to groups. This year the two groups who stood out for their commitment to Hearth were Edward Devotion School and New Testament Church; the recognized individual volunteer is Cyd Kane.

Edward Devotion School

Edward Devotion School has been volunteering at the Bishop Street House and the Ruth Cowin House since 2002. Once a month students prepare and drop off a meal. They also make birthday cards for residents and have held food drives for Hearth's Outreach department. Special activities have included entertainment for the Ruth Cowin residents. In early May, 80 middle school students, along with parents and a Master Gardener, completed a major landscaping project at the newly renovated Bishop Street house, preparing it for the summer.

New Testament Church

New Testament Church of God began volunteering at Uphams Corner in 2003, logging in nearly fifty hours in just two years.  The Church serves a hearty breakfast once a month--a treat the residents really enjoy. The New Testament Church has also performed plays and choir programs. The Church's interest in Uphams Corner has greatly enhanced the residents' lives by bringing them back in to the community.

Cyd Kane

This year's award for outstanding individual volunteer went to Cyd Kane. She has been shopping with the ladies of Bishop Street every week since 1997. The Wednesday night ritual of shopping, unpacking groceries, and dinner is a much anticipated event for the residents. Cyd also serves as the Rep. Payee for one of the residents. Her hours spent at Bishop street are invaluable to Hearth--and also to Cyd who says she could not imagine not volunteering.