On April 5th, we hosted our annual Volunteer Appreciation Event to celebrate and honor the outstanding volunteers who make a world of difference in the lives of our seniors. We were honored to recognize a handful of volunteers, from individuals to groups, and people of all ages, who come together to uplift our senior community in meaningful ways. Their impact is immeasurable, and is the heart of what we do at Serving Seniors.
Congratulations again to the awardees!
-
Fred Davis Volunteer of the Year Award: Mathew Nguyen - Click here to read more
If you’ve spent any time at our Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center, then you have most certainly met Fred Davis.
For over 20 years, we have had the good fortune of working alongside Fred whose exemplary, extraordinary, and caring spirit embodies all the great qualities of our volunteers: Compassion, sincerity, integrity, commitment, dependability, and joy. Two years ago, we launched a new tradition by naming our Volunteer of the Year award after Fred and his living legacy.
Mathew embodies what it means to be a dedicated volunteer. Click here to read Mathew's story.
-
Simon Silva Leadership Award: Barbara Brown - Click here to read more
In 2022 we lost a treasured board member and friend, Simon Silva. Simon served on our board of directors for five years. Simon embodied our mission of helping others and cared deeply about our seniors. Nowhere was that dedication more on display than when he participated in board meetings from his hospital bed while receiving treatment. Simon’s strength, courage and dedication to servant leadership is an inspiration to us all.
As an enduring tribute to Simon Silva’s servant leadership, we have established the Simon Silva Leadership Award. This award goes to an individual who embodies Simon’s generous and selfless leadership - Barbara Brown.
Click here to read more about Barbara's special recognition.
-
Community Connection Award: Bryan Devore
The Community Connection Award goes to a volunteer that link Serving Seniors to others, and fully embrace and further our mission to help seniors in poverty live healthy and fulfilling lives throughout the greater community. This year’s Community Connection Award goes to Bryan Devore.
Bryan is a dedicated and outstanding volunteer, not only for Serving Seniors, but he also supports several older adult focused non-profit and community-based organizations. He has helped us expand our reach and connections to various groups and serves on the San Diego County Council on Aging. His collaborative spirit makes sure that everyone has a seat at the table and we are thrilled to consider him a partner in the fight against senior homelessness.
-
All for One, One for All Award: Friends of Downtown
The All for One, One for All Award is given to an individual or a group who share their skills and work collaboratively and compassionately to provide excellent service to our clients. Friends of Downtown is an all-volunteer group of professionals and residents who work and/or live in the downtown community. Each year, and for the past 20 plus years, they have pooled their resources together to create over 200 amazing and overflowing holiday gift bags for our seniors, particularly the 200 residents at our Potiker Family Senior Residence in East Village.
-
Perpetual Smile Award: Jack in the Box
The Perpetual Smile Award goes to an individual or a group whose genuine, seemingly perpetual smile, brings warmth, inspiration, and joy to others. The Jack in the Box team always bring joy, happiness, and huge smiles to our seniors, whether it is through their lunch services or hosting a birthday party. We are fortunate and incredibly honored to present this award to Jack in the Box for everything they have done over their years of service.
-
Most Enthusiastic Award: Hotel Republic
The Most Enthusiastic Activity Host Award goes to an individual or group who creatively contributes to the fun and enrichment we offer our clients. When Hotel Republic is in the house, our seniors know it is going to be a party! Their infectious attitudes and energetic presence brings laughter and boat loads of fun to our seniors. When they are at the Wellness Center, it is hard to tell who is having more fun, Hotel Republic or the seniors.
-
Eternal Service Award: Cavignac
The Eternal Service Award is given to an individual or group for their dedication and exemplary ongoing service. Cavignac is a group of passionate individuals who are always attentive, caring, and considerate, and you can’t miss them because when they come in wearing their Cavignac Cares T-shirts, they always stand out. Our seniors always mention the thoughtfulness of Cavignac’s volunteers and are always excited to see their familiar faces in the Dining Room.
-
Outstanding Youth Volunteer: William Forrest
The Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award goes to a youth or youth group who demonstrate exceptional volunteer service. We are honored to present this award to William Forrest.
William started five years ago during the pandemic - participating in our senior enrichment activities called Courtyard Concerts as an avenue to return programs to our seniors. William is a talented cellist and polite young man, and his performances provide seniors with a sense of comfort, healing, and community.
William is the first of our volunteers who offered routine musical performances. He has become very much a familiar and a loved presence by our seniors! His continued cello performances and selfless service, supported by his parents and family reminds all of our senior clients that those who think and care about them give their time, talent and treasure unselfishly. -
Early Bird Award: Bonnie Kohn
We recognize Bonnie Kohn with the Early Bird Award for her dedication and generosity. She consistently supports our team and clients bright and early when our doors open at 7 am.
-
On the Spot Award: Gabriela Mejia
Serving Seniors recognizes individuals who always come through in a pinch. When extra help is needed, they are there to help. Sometimes, you don’t even have to ask. Always, they provide service with a smile. They are just there “on the spot”. This year, we have three recipients of our On the Spot Award: Gabriela Mejia, Eduardo Reyna, Belinda Romero.
-
On the Spot Award: Eduardo Reyna
Serving Seniors recognizes individuals who always come through in a pinch. When extra help is needed, they are there to help. Sometimes, you don’t even have to ask. Always, they provide service with a smile. They are just there “on the spot”. This year, we have three recipients of our On the Spot Award: Gabriela Mejia, Eduardo Reyna, Belinda Romero.
-
On the Spot Award: Belinda Romero
Serving Seniors recognizes individuals who always come through in a pinch. When extra help is needed, they are there to help. Sometimes, you don’t even have to ask. Always, they provide service with a smile. They are just there “on the spot”. This year, we have three recipients of our On the Spot Award: Gabriela Mejia, Eduardo Reyna, Belinda Romero.
EVENT PHOTOS:
