Presidential Service Award goes to these RSVP Volunteers in 2012
for having achieved more than 4,000 hours of volunteer service in their lifetime:
MaryJo Andolina A friend asked MaryJo if she‘d consider volunteering for Rural Transit Services. Recovering from knee surgery, MaryJo actually used the Rural Transit van to get there to dispatch other vans! "I‘m very happy I did because I love the people I volunteer with! As a widow, volunteering gets me out of the house. I usually volunteer once a week, but I‘ll go whenever they need me. MaryJo encourages others to volunteer because it allows you to get out and meet people. I‘d say to those who don‘t volunteer; try it, you‘ll love it – I do!"
Mary Cameron After losing loved ones in Vietnam, Mary dedicated the past 15 years to helping veterans. "I would do anything for our veterans, because we would not have the freedoms we enjoy if not for their many sacrifices. This RSVP volunteer serves at the Erie County Office of Veterans Services 3 days per week, 7-9 hours per day. In addition to office tasks, she staffs information tables at community events, giving out printed materials and talking to veterans and their families. I meet lots of interesting and inspiring people, and it makes me feel good to know that a veteran‘s life may be a little better because of information that I gave them. It also keeps me very busy!"
Betty Heigl An RSVP volunteer since 1996, Betty volunteers at the VA and Ladies of Charity and simply loves it! She finds it very rewarding to see those she helps to benefit from her volunteer work and how grateful they are. "I recall a gentleman who came into Ladies of Charity wearing only a tee-shirt and shorts. The clothes on his back were all he owned. We helped him find the necessities he needed – even undergarments. It was humbling, yet I was so glad I was able to help. That‘s why I volunteer."
Helen Machynski Helen has been an RSVP volunteer since 2006 serving at the Amherst Senior Center, assisting with special events and projects. She also is a member of the crocheting group. They create hand-made lap robes, baby blankets, mittens, scarves, etc. and donate them to various organizations where those in need can benefit from their warmth and beauty.
Robert J. McTighe Since 2006, Robert has volunteered at the VA Hospital as a RSVP volunteer. Currently, he is the coordinator for the DAV (Disabled American Veteran‘s) Van Transportation Network, ensuring there are enough vans and drivers to transport the veterans to their medical appointments at the VA. He also assists in recruiting new volunteers for the DAV. William Miess William was volunteering at the Erie County Home for a couple of years when he attended an RSVP orientation. Now an RSVP volunteer, he serves there and with Habitat for Humanity. "At the nursing home, a lot of residents don‘t have family so I visit them. They look forward to seeing me and I them. I recall one man I visited who was completely immobile though he could move his eyes and speak very weakly. I entered the room and simply asked ―How are you today? and the man replied, I am blessed. I recall thinking to myself ―what strength!- amidst the pain and loneliness HE is blessed. This is why I volunteer – for the mutual blessings we both receive."
James Ochal James learned about RSVP from other volunteers at the VA. "I‘m retired, and volunteering expands my circle of friends. One reason I starting volunteering at the VA was because my Dad was hospitalized there for a long time - I felt I owed the hospital. I‘m a fortunate vet-- I‘m healthy, have two feet, and can help those vets who are less fortunate. As a volunteer, you as a person feel good about your-self knowing you‘re not going through life selfishly taking care of only yourself. It expands your life to more than just one dimension - I‘m just happier."
Michael Petrinec An RSVP volunteer since 2001, Mike serves at the Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo Audubon Society and is Co-Chair of the RSVP Advisory Council and former President of the Buffalo Audubon Society. Throughout the years, he has led hundreds of tours at the Zoo and Beaver Meadow. He especially enjoys school groups that come in. "Children spend most of their leisure time indoors on the computer or watching TV. I hope I help them develop a love of nature because what they love, they will protect." Mike also volunteers as curator at Marilla Historical Society.
Angeline Stadelman Angeline explains "One day I stumbled upon RSVP literature and thought that it would be good for me to be a part of a volunteer group. I have a friendly personality and I love to talk! I use my love of talking to people to help the Amherst Senior Center and other non-profits like the Alzheimer‘s Association by selling raffle tickets, collecting donations, etc. At the Center, they all call me the ticket lady because I can sell anything and I usually am! It‘s so rewarding and I feel like I‘m doing my part. I‘m not one to sit on the side. I enjoy many things like bowling and golfing, but I truly enjoy helping others and the organizations people depend on."
Congratulations 2012 Presidential Service Award Recipients for making a difference!
Meet the Presidential Volunteer Service Awardees in 2011:
Lillian Bubacz: Since 2003, Lillian has been serving as an RSVP volunteer at Mercy Hospital. She serves because she cares about people. “I love talking to the patients and making them smile. Every time I leave the hospital, I feel that I have accomplished something.” Lillian wants others to know there is nothing to fear about volunteering. “It is very uplifting, for both you and those who you are serving.”
George Burgin: George is no stranger to service. A dedicated veteran, he continues to serve his country and community as a driver for Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Van Transportation Network. He enjoys the camaraderie amongst his fellow volunteers and all the personalities of the men and women who have served in different wars. Most of all, he likes to make them smile. When a passenger got into his van one day he told George, “This will be my last ride.” “I consoled him and was even able to make him laugh. It was just nice to see him smile.” The DAV provides more than 5,000 rides annually in WNY!
Earl Clements: Earl has been serving with RSVP since 2002. When he retired from his job as a local school bus driver, he still craved the open road. As a driver for the American Red Cross, Earl uses his enthusiasm for driving to help save lives. “Driving is my talent that I can use to help people. It’s satisfying to know that I deliver much needed blood supplies to their destination safely.”
Edward Dockstader: For the past 17 years, Eddie has been “riding shotgun” as a driver assistant on the Rural Transit Services van in Brant. Eddie volunteers 5 days per week helping elderly or disabled riders get safely in and out of the van, or carrying groceries into the homes for people who have gone shopping. His supervisor, fellow RSVP volunteer Robert Lee Brunelli, said “Eddie couldn’t be any better! He is always helpful with anything that needs to be done. If I have a new driver, I never have to worry if Eddie is riding along because he knows the routes, the riders, and the rules so well.”
Sue Faltisco: Sue has been volunteering atMercyHospital for 11 years. She serves in the surgical waiting room where she acts as greeter and liaison between patient, family members and surgical staff during surgery. “I love doing what I’m doing! It’s very worthwhile and I’m appreciated.”
Edward Feuerbach: Ed volunteers 6 days per week --- and is a shining star at 4 different sites! Ed follows the Franciscan motto that he learned atBishopTimonHigh School: “It is in giving that we receive.” He volunteers Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays in the Medical Library atBuffalo GeneralHospital --- no matter the weather, and even on holidays. Library staff described Ed as a welcoming presence who arrives for his very early shift “like clockwork”, re-shelving, helping patrons find books, or delivering materials to patients or staff. The rest of the week, Ed prepares meals at the St. Vincent DePaul kitchen, delivers Meals on Wheels toBuffalo’s West Side, and scrapes paint or does other work restoring Shea’sPerformingArtsCenter. This amazing volunteer has visited every continent-- includingAntarctica!
William Hale: After retirement, William felt as if he was “wasting away.” While surfing the internet, he discovered RSVP’s website. Based on his skills and interests, RSVP set him up to volunteer at the Buffalo/Niagara International Airport. According to William, volunteering challenges him physically and mentally. He enjoys helping others, talking to them, and directing those that are lost. He also has quite the rapport among his colleagues as they refer to him as “The Mayor”!
Carol Mayo: Carol has been volunteering out of theAmherstSeniorCenter for eleven years, serving in many capacities. Currently, she is the director of the Amherst Senior Singers, president of the Sports Club, helps to plan and implement fundraising events, and intermittingly sits on the Representative Council. In 2001 when she wanted to help tutor and mentor children, RSVP matched her withForestElementary School, where she serves as a classroom assistant. “The kids call me ‘Grandma Mayo’ and they welcome me with a hug each time I see them!” Carol is passionate about volunteering because she shares the same sentiment that the Forest Elementary motto teaches their students: Sharing and caring is very important to me. Check out this great article about her and volunteer efforts that was printed in the Amherst Bee . http://www.amherstbee.com/news/2011-05-04/Lifestyles/A_Day_at_the_Amherst_Center_for_Senior_Services.html
Charles McCarthy: Chuck started volunteering as a friendly visitor, then also joined the therapy transport team at Brothers of Mercy and served over 5,600 hours since 1993! “Chuck was the first volunteer that I gave an orientation for. He was aBuffalo fireman just like my father, so we have a special bond,” said Val Sonnenfeld, Volunteer Director at Brothers of Mercy. “Chuck arrives faithfully every week to volunteer, even during the summer when he stays inCanada and has to drive in a long distance.”
Gordon Mittleman: Gordon has volunteered for Meals on Wheels for WNY for the last 12 years. Through connections by RSVP, he also serves at theV.AMedicalCenter and Weinberg Campus. Throughout all his years of service, one experience particularly sticks out in his memory... A resident on his Meals on Wheels route did not answer the door as usual. Gordon announced himself and entered to find that the woman had fallen and lain on the floor for quite some time. He called for help and waited with her until they arrived. “It’s being able to be there for others in need” that keeps him volunteering.
Patricia Palmatier: For the past five years, Patty has been donating her time and energy at the Ladies of Charity to help alleviate the suffering of the impoverished. Not only has her service benefited others, but also herself. Patty has discovered that through service, she is able to forget her own troubles. “I feel great when I’m helping people! It’s very rewarding and keeps my mind healthy and busy.” Patty recommends volunteering to everyone, but especially for those experiencing hardships. “I have fun, am treated with respect, and have an active role in keeping my community safe.”
Mike Schwing: As an active community member, Mike has volunteered for his local little league team, his employee union, as a driver for Rural Transit Service, and atBeaverMeadowAudubonCenter. He recalls his first experience volunteering at Beaver Meadow for their annual Halloween event “The Enchanted Forest” - One of the more seasoned volunteers convinced him to play the role of the great horned owl - in costume! He and the other volunteers still “get a hoot out of it” to this day!
Albert Sillato: “Everyone at Brothers of Mercy treated my wife as a family member and went above the call of duty to make us both comfortable. After she passed, I decided to volunteer there to help other residents.” And Albert has been doing so for the last ten years. Val Sonnenfeld, Brothers of Mercy Volunteer Director, said “Al is a true gentleman. He immediately stands in the presence of a lady, and is polite and respectful to everyone.” He also volunteers his time and knowledge of golf at the Lancaster Country Club Jr. Program and with many golf charity events. Albert urges everyone to volunteer and to “treat your fellow man as you wish to be treated. Giving back just makes you feel like a better person.”
Joan Suttel: Joan considers herself to be having a great day when she brings a smile to someone’s face. For the last eleven years, that has been her goal as a Friendly Visitor volunteer at Elderwood atMaplewood. As most RSVP volunteers are quoted, Joan feels she “receives more than she gives.” Joan also likes to have fun while volunteering - one year, she jumped out of a birthday cake!
Peter Tifft: Peter has been an RSVP volunteer at theBuffalo and Erie County Library since he retired nine years ago. “I like being a part of RSVP because they keep me informed of other volunteer opportunities and information in the area.” According to Peter, volunteering makes him feel healthier, focused, and gives him a positive outlook on life. “What I do may not be has helpful as what a physician does, but this still helps people. Reading the news of all the difficulties in the world, I feel a sense of peace knowing that I’m doing my part to bring a little good into the world.”
Raymond Wood: According to Raymond, he’s an “80-year-old big, bald guy who likes to volunteer and ride his motorcycle.” He has been volunteering for the last five years for theV.AMedicalCenter as a driver for the D.A.V. He volunteers not only to help our country’s veterans, but also because he enjoys all the personalities that he encounters. In his spare time, Raymond also enjoys singing in a Barber Shop Quartet.
Meet the 2010 “Lifetime” Presidential Service Award Recipients
Rose Burns (Clarence Senior Center)
If it’s Thursday at the Clarence Senior Center, you will almost certainly find Rose Burns running a bingo game or in the office helping out with filing or putting together packets of information --- or doing whatever task needs to be done!. Rose started volunteering at the Senior Center in 1981 as a “full-time volunteer” in the office. She also served on the Center’s Board of Directors. “I enjoy office work. I took care of the office at my husband’s business for over 30 years. When I volunteer at the Center, I like meeting the people and getting out of the house. I always tell other people that they should volunteer --- you got to keep moving!”
Janet Vito (Clarence Senior Center)
An energetic and committed advocate for older adults, Janet turns her commitment into action as a volunteer at the Clarence Senior Center. Working behind the scenes as a dedicated member of the Center’s Board of Directors, or leading a popular senior fitness program (with husband Larry), Janet enjoys volunteering because it is fun and rewarding. “People at the Center come up to me and say “Can I talk to you about something?” It’s a matter of developing trust. The most satisfying part of volunteering is when I can make someone else feel special, especially those who might not have anyone else.”
Douglas Dalgleish (American Red Cross, Sisters of Charity Hospital)
At 7am when other people are just waking up, Doug may be setting up coffee in the surgical lounge at Sisters of Charity Hospital. The next day, he may be providing hospitality for blood donors at the American Red Cross. This busy volunteer often responds “yes” to helping out with extra, early, or late shifts. Doug’s philosophy of volunteering is simple: “It all comes down to meeting people. I used to drive a cab, and met people from all walks of life. What I enjoy most as a volunteer is that I still can meet interesting new people.”
Barbara Berg (Amherst Senior Center, BEC Botanical Gardens, WNED)
When Barbara was in high school, her mother was a volunteer. Barbara followed suit and has volunteered ever since. She’s a member of the Amherst Senior Center knitters, creating warm mittens and other items for people in need. She also leads tours at the Botanical Gardens and assists with pledges and special events at WNED. “I volunteer because I enjoy the good feeling that I get, and I like meeting people.” Barbara’s advice for others: “Volunteers live longer – and retirement doesn’t mean life is over!”
Charles Catalina (VA Medical Center)
Charles has been serving his country and community since he was 18. A Korean War veteran, he volunteers as a DAV van driver to bring veterans to medical appointments at the VA. “It’s a way to thank fellow veterans for their service and sacrifices, and to pay back the VA for the good care. You can witness the brotherhood among veterans as volunteers help the older riders out of the van. You see the respect on one hand, and the appreciation in return.” Charles is proud to be one of the few Navy Buglers in our area, and is often called upon to play taps at funerals and other events.
Frank Marciniak (VA Medical Center)
What was supposed to be a 2-week commitment at the V.A. has now lasted twenty-two years! Once Frank got out of his service uniform, he never lost the idea of giving back. As a volunteer driver for the DAV van transportation program, he especially enjoys the interaction with the vets. “You can always learn something from them and they need the interaction because some of them don’t have much family. If I help only one or two guys a day, I’ve accomplished something.”
Mary DiLiberto (Millard Fillmore Gates)
When Mary decided to return to work after she was widowed 29 years ago, a friend suggested volunteering as a way to sharpen her skills and get experience. Mary applied to the volunteer office at Millard Gates, and delivered flowers to patient rooms. Soon afterwards, she got a job in a nursing home, but continued to volunteer at Millard. “As a volunteer, I felt good and enjoyed everything about it, so I stuck with it. I like getting to know the patients and bringing them cheer. And it keeps me busy!”
Joseph Dabrowki (Beaver Meadow Audubon Center, Roswell Park Cancer Institute)
Joe was an engineer at GM for 30 years. These days, he gives tours, teaches kids, and helps the environment as a volunteer at Beaver Meadow. “It’s like having a second career in life! It’s very rewarding, keeps me involved and uses my skills to help others.” In addition, Joe volunteers at Roswell, assisting with buildings and grounds maintenance. “I started volunteering in the gardens, got stung by hornets, and ended up in the hospital. So now I serve inside.”
Josephine Pelligrino
Josephine started volunteering at Millard Gates in the early 1980’s. She delivers mail to patient rooms, and enjoys the interaction and getting to know the patients and staff. “You get a satisfaction of doing something for others who need you. I like giving of myself to help others. It’s worth much more than money!”
Daniel Koslicki (VA Medical Center)
During the 19 years that Dan has volunteered at the VA, he has been moved by the appreciation expressed by the patients. “They value our services. Without volunteers, they wouldn’t be able to receive the care and services they need.” He encourages anyone with time to consider sharing their skills by volunteering at the VA. “It’s a way to thank all those who have and are currently serving our country for our freedom.”