Rose Cologne Volunteer Tributes |
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Each year, the Centre County Council for Human Services honors volunteers who work to further the mission of CCCHS’ member agencies. The Rose Cologne Volunteer Recognition is named after the first recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award. Human service agencies, like those that are members of the Centre County Council for Human Services, have been a lifeline in so many ways to our community. For our members working on limited budgets and significant staff shortages, volunteers were (and continue to be) the key to an organization’s success. The Rose Cologne Volunteer dinner takes months of planning. When the committee met in the fall of 2021, we still weren’t sure if we could safely host the dinner in person. Therefore, we made the tough decision to forgo our inside event and create another alternative way to celebrate our volunteers. We are excited to once again partner with the Centre Daily Times to honor these volunteers with printed tributes during April (National Volunteer Month) and involve Carolyn Donaldson of WPSU to record our volunteer tributes for social media. Council will also welcome our volunteers and their guests to attend and be recognized at our annual picnic in June at Calvary Church. We know the council consists of agencies and individuals who are providing incredibly valuable resources and services to the Centre County community. We are very thankful that we can find new, creative ways to honor those volunteers until the Rose Cologne Dinner can once again take place! Thank you volunteers, for everything you do to make Centre County an amazing place to live and work! Melissa Bottorf, President, CCCHS |
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Volunteer: Jeannie Merce Agency: Village at Penn StateLength of service: Four years Roles: For the past four years Jeannie has successfully chaired the Village estate sales, raising significant funds for the residents’ general fund. She also volunteers in the Village gift shop as a merchandizer and cashier. During the COVID crisis, Jeannie made masks, which were distributed among the staff. Jeannie truly exemplifies the true meaning of a “star” volunteer. Reason for volunteering: “I serve as chair of our Estate Sale Committee at VPS. We help the families of our residents in transition situations make decisions about disposal of household and personal possessions at difficult times. If the family wishes, we have an estate sale which benefits the Village staff ... housekeeping, maintenance, nursing and dining. We are all family. That is why I volunteer.” |
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Volunteer: Karen Magnuson Agency: Interfaith Human Services Length of service: Seven years Roles: Karen has been involved with Interfaith for several years. She has been a member of our board since 2015 until present, serving as board chair for four of those years. Karen also serves us as a volunteer in our office. One day a week she covers the front desk, answering phones and any other tasks asked of her. Karen is a pleasure to work with and we thoroughly enjoy and are thankful to have her at IHS. Reason for volunteering: “I’m drawn to IHS for three reasons. First, our governing body embraces members of different faith communities. Second, IHS focuses not simply on averting crisis, but on creating financial stability for families and individuals who otherwise would be in a constant cycle of crisis. Lastly, I stand in awe of the staff who serve with such incredible conviction and compassion.” |
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Volunteer: Jim Bloom Agency: Centre Volunteers in Medicine Length of service: One year Roles: As a vaccinator, Dr. Bloom is responsible for reviewing the questionnaires filled out by vaccine recipients, asking follow-up questions based on their answers, and answering any questions and concerns regarding the vaccines. Once the paperwork process is complete, he then administers the vaccine. Reason for volunteering: “I was moved by the extraordinary industry and energy Centre Volunteers in Medicine and the local medical community devoted to the single most pressing issue our society has faced in the 21st century — a vigor they consistently demonstrate across the scope of their services to Centre County.” |
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Volunteer: Helen Dempsey Agency: State College Area Meals on Wheels Length of service: Seven years Roles: Helen works in multiple roles at SCMOW each week. She is the day manager for one of our regular meal lines, and she helps out other days as an in-house substitute. Helen also organizes our pet program and delivers pet food to participating clients. In addition, Helen was a key member of our kitchen team during our temporary Fresh Delivery program. Reason for volunteering: “I volunteer at SCMOW because it helps folks remain independent and in their own homes. During the pandemic we have expanded services to our clients who otherwise might have been even more isolated and at risk. I’m always proud to tell people I’m a SCMOW volunteer.” |
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Volunteer: Ken Baxter Agency: Jana Marie Foundation Length of service: Four years Roles: Ken Baxter’s love for music, authenticity and dedication to suicide prevention does not go unnoticed at Jana Marie Foundation. For the past four years, Ken has helped to champion Jana Marie Foundation’s fundraising efforts by producing the Philosophy of Hope concert, a major undertaking to bring musicians throughout Centre County together to form one band with one voice, with the goal of spreading hope and raising vital funds to promote our mission. Additionally, Ken has graciously and generously lent his talents to help promote hope, healing and remembrance at our annual Suicide Prevention and Awareness Day events. Reason for volunteering: “The rehearsals this year alone were endless and consuming, but when you think about it, that’s nothing to what Jana Marie Foundation does for this community. I am grateful to be part of the work of Jana Marie Foundation.” |
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Volunteer: Jordan Glover Agency: American Association of University Women, State College Branch Length of service: Since 2018 Roles: Co-VP for membership, Program Committee, website coordinator, diversity and inclusion chair for AAUW PA state board, on national board Diversity and Inclusion Committee Reason for volunteering: “I volunteer with AAUW to be closer to the local community, make new networking connections and grow my professional skill set. As a volunteer locally, in the state and nationally, I get to see all aspects of AAUW and really enjoy advancing equity for women.” |
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Volunteer: Judy Bond Agency: Pennsylvania Prison Society — Centre County Chapter Length of service: Five years Roles: Judy has conducted meditation classes for men at the Centre County Correctional Facility for five years. She began with in-person sessions and has managed to continue this service virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reason for volunteering: “Through personal experience I found meditation to be relaxing and insightful. Since the 1970s I have used meditation and I wanted to bring this technique to the stressful situations at correctional facilities.” |
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Volunteer: Rebecca Stroschein Agency: Acres Project Length of service: Four years Roles: Becca started out at Acres when she was a freshman. Her enthusiasm shined as she worked alongside a group of older Penn State students in her major. Becca found her niche at Acres with the day program. She worked with the adults who needed more support with their communication skills. Becca became an integral part of Acres branching out to summer series and “Get your move on.” She became the driving force for our outstanding OVR programs. She was the mastermind in changing our programs over to Zoom during COVID. Reason for volunteering: “I chose to work at Acres because of the impact it is making on lives across the central PA community. I was drawn to working somewhere dedicated to addressing the individual needs for adults with autism since there is really nowhere else out there that does that. Every day I come in and I teach my students but also feel they’re teaching me every day too and helping me to learn more and more. I truly think it is one of the best jobs.” |
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Volunteer: Tim Edkin Agency: SCORE — Central PA Chapter Length of service: 10 years Roles: Tim has been a member of SCORE nearly 10 years and serves in several key roles including chapter intake coordinator, IT subject matter expert as well as a mentor. In addition to these responsibilities, Tim also championed the implementation of the new ENGAGE client management system. But maybe the most important attribute is Tim’s willingness to pick up the phone or answer an email to help anyone in the chapter. He carefully manages our clients to balance our workloads and create the proper matches with the appropriate mentor. Reason for volunteering: “I am very grateful for this recognition. But I am just one of a wonderful group of SCORE volunteers who are dedicated to helping our clients achieve their dreams. All of them are worthy of this honor.” |
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Volunteer: Margie Swoboda Agency: Constitution Day Centre Inc. Length of service: Six years Roles: Margie has been a motivational leader in the planning of every Constitution Day celebration since 2017. As a board member and vice president, she wins grants and recruits top exhibitors and speakers. Her enthusiasm inspires volunteers. Thanks to Margie, area residents and visitors honor the Constitution and democracy each year. Reason for volunteering: “The U.S. Constitution is the living foundation of our American democracy. It has been my pleasure to help organize educational and fun activities that encourage people to civilly discuss the Constitution and its impact on our lives. I have greatly enjoyed being a part of this organization and Constitution Day.” |
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Volunteer: Frankie Urrutia-Smith Agency: Centre Safe Length of service: Graduated from training August 2021 – present Roles: Completed 80-hour training program to become volunteer domestic violence and sexual assault counselor. Answers hotline calls from people seeking domestic-, sexual-, dating-violence and stalking services. Responds to local hospital to accompany victims and survivors of sexual assault. Assists clients who seek shelter services. Participates in at least four, 16-hour shifts/month. Reason for volunteering: “I chose to volunteer for Centre Safe as a way to connect to the community where I’m completing graduate school. Their focus on empowerment and victim-centered advocacy really spoke to me and I am proud to count myself as part of an organization providing such important service.” |
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Volunteer: David Dimmick Agency: FaithCentre Length of service: 20 years Roles: Co-founder of the FaithCentre in 2002, past president of the board, interim executive director 2007, hands-on volunteer at the Food Bank and Thrift Store, oversaw incorporation of the FaithCentre, development of bylaws, and the policies and procedures manual. Reason for volunteering: “In 2002, when founding FaithCentre was proposed, I feared that many supporters would ‘applaud when our hearts were touched (but might) allow the sentiment to die away with the echo of enthusiasm.’ (Dick Falkner). How moving that enthusiasm remains strong and FaithCentre continues to meet its mission of improving lives.” |
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Volunteer: Danielle Lanagan Agency: Centre Region Parks and Recreation Authority Length of service: 10 years, 6 months Roles: As the Millbrook Marsh Nature Center garden coordinator, Danielle volunteers to oversee the native gardens and landscaping, and leads the “Garden Work and Learn” programs held biweekly from April-October. Danielle also proposed and designed the 60’ x 60’ pollinator garden and mentored a Girl Scout troop through this project to earn their Gold Award. Native gardening is an in-demand topic, and without these gardens, Millbrook would not be able to provide these educational opportunities. Danielle’s service has been very meaningful and her outreach to hundreds of youth and adults has impacted positively their love of plants and nature! Reason for volunteering: “I am thrilled to be part of the Millbrook Marsh team! Several years ago when I became interested in (obsessed with) pollinator gardening, they found an area where I could experiment. Native plant gardens show that any area can become not only beautiful, but a garden that thrives with life!” |
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Volunteers: Doug Miller & Evelyn Bartsch Agency: Foxdale Village Length of service: Four years Roles: Doug and Evelyn share their gift of music and song through their weekly music performances for Foxdale residents. Combining live piano and guitar music with their voices, they lead an hourlong singalong of familiar songs each week. Reason for volunteering: Doug – “Singing for our neighbors in Anthony House is at least as special for us as we hope it is for the residents. Seeing folks’ eyes come to life when they recognize a familiar song, or begin mouthing its words, is a wonderful shared experience of music’s ability to connect with one another.” Evelyn – “I’m glad to know that our Anthony friends enjoy our music because I enjoy it so much too. Singing old familiar songs together is very special.” |
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Volunteer: Bob Frankenberg Agency: Tides Length of service: Five years Roles: Bob has facilitated our Parent Loss group for the five years he has served a as volunteer. He has also attended other events and is always ready to lend a hand. Reason for volunteering: “My mother died when I was 8, and I felt all alone in my grief. When I first came to Tides, I found a community of people who support one another in their time of grief. It has been a privilege to be a part of such a community.” |
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Volunteer: Kerri Sanchez Agency: Park Forest Preschool Length of service: Nine years Roles: Kerri became involved with our program as a parent while each of her three children attended Park Forest Preschool. She quickly developed rapport with the staff and the other parents. She was active in the parenting group as a participant and as a mentor to other parents. Kerri has volunteered in all of the classrooms and in the kitchen. Kerri has accompanied Park Forest Preschool on field trips and been the unofficial photographer for class photos, as well as documentation of the children’s learning. Reason for volunteering: “The preschool has been part of my life for nine years. Last year, when my youngest graduated preschool, I thought about how to give back to the school that gave my family so much. Time was my greatest answer. I love volunteering. I help out every day possible.” |
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Volunteer: Connie Corl Agency: Centre Care Length of service: 14 years Roles: Connie has held most volunteer jobs at this organization. She has spent much of her time as the treasurer. Connie contributes to each and every event the organization conducts and is on the executive board of the organization. Connie has spent her 14 years volunteering in any way she can support the residents and staff at Centre Care. Reason for volunteering: “Volunteering at Centre Care offers me the opportunity to give back to my community. I receive great pleasure from helping others and knowing my efforts improve the quality of life for the residents.” |
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Volunteer: David Nguyen Agency: Centre Helps Length of service: about 1.5 years Roles: Hotline counselor: (1) Answer calls on a 24/7 hotline (types could range from the crisis, domestic violence, drug and alcohol concerns, suicide, homelessness, food insecurity (2) Complete 340 hours of volunteer work (four hours a week, one overnight a month) (3) Complete detail logs about interactions (4) Provide assistance to walk-in clients (5) Complete food bank referrals and food pantries (6) Answer phones during off hours for local shelters, hotlines, AA and therapy offices; On the job trainer: Small group instruction to teach new volunteers how to use phone and policies regarding crisis, mental health and suicide. Reason for volunteering: “Centre Helps provided me with the most rewarding experiences of my life. I volunteered to make a difference, inspire change and help others. I got to see that here firsthand. I met the greatest people here and I adore them. I know they will make the world a better place!” |
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Volunteer: David J. Brown Agency: State College Community Land Trust Length of service: Five years Roles: David J. Brown has been on the State College Community Land Trust board of directors for the past five years. David has been an active member of the Real Estate & Rehab Committee, which involves reviewing properties for the SCCLT to purchase. David is also a very active volunteer on our properties when we need extensive painting and yard cleanup support! Reason for volunteering: “The State College Community Land Trust is a crown jewel among local philanthropies, continuing to successfully help folks attain, own and live in decent affordable housing. Additionally, the land trust affords deep satisfaction to those of us grateful to be among its volunteers.” |
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Volunteer: Robert Leach Agency: Mid-State Literacy Council Length of service: Four years Roles: Four years. Twelve semesters. Over 120 engaged students. More than 500 hours of instruction. 650+ hours of preparation. One goal: Provide English as a second language (ESL) students with the tools to speak and understand English with greater confidence and skill. Mid-State Literacy Council thanks Robert Leach for his volunteer work as an ESL teacher, tutor and part of our training team. Reason for volunteering: “Volunteering is an integral part of my life. I was a baseball coach, a soccer coach, a Boy Scout leader, a Sunday school teacher and school board member. In my more mature years I discovered a passion for teaching ESL. Volunteering to teach ESL at Mid-State was a natural choice for me.” |
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Volunteer: Amy Frank Agency: Centre County Youth Service Bureau Length of service: Six years Roles: Amy started with us by working with our girls at Stormbreak through the Makery and opening space to them. Through that she helped them to create artwork for events at YSB. This led to her support and becoming a board member. She still continues her work with the girls at Stormbreak by being a regular mentor and volunteer with the girls weekly. Amy’s energy, caring and creative ideas are a real asset to the YSB! Reason for volunteering: “I am grateful to have the opportunity to build real relationships with the incredible young women at Stormbreak and to witness the compassion, patience and perseverance of each staff person. This tight-knit community is a beautiful example of resiliency, healing and hope, and I feel lucky to be a small part of it.” |
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Volunteer: Janet Zerbe Agency: Mount Nittany Health Roles: Mount Nittany Health is proud to honor our incredible volunteers who share their time, their expertise and their compassion to help our staff, patients and visitors. Their roles in the hospital range from greeting patients and visitors, transporting patients around the hospital and other select types of work. Even though we have had to pause the program due to COVID, we have been able to welcome volunteers back in limited capacities. Their absence and work were deeply missed and their limited return has been a delight to our organization. Reason for volunteering: Volunteers are special members of the Mount Nittany Health family. With their dedication to helping patients, visitors and staff, they embody our mission of healthier people, stronger community. Mount Nittany Health is deeply grateful for their service, and honoring their efforts is our pleasure. — Wendy Garlock, manager, event and volunteer |
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Don't Forget to RSVP for the Annual Picnic & Volunteer Recognition in June! |
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Join us for our CCCHS Annual Picnic at Noon on June 1, 2022 at Calvary Church, 150 Harvest Fields Drive, Boalsburg, PA 16827 where we will recognize our Rose Cologne Volunteers! We are asking everyone who plans to attend to RSVP to help Calvary Church with a lunch headcount! | | |
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Submissions for the July Newsletter are due by June 15th. We understand that programs and operations are changing every day. We will endeavor to include late submissions. Email Stravis@tiu11.org Start the subject line with "CCCHS Newsletter." |
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