Volunteers Thanked For Their Time And Talent

At Ashlar Of Newtown

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, and in keeping with an annual tradition, Ashlar of Newtown recently hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner in its Lodge Room. The festive event was held to thank the more than 130 volunteers from all walks of life and age groups who freely give their time and talent for the benefit of the residents of both Ashlar of Newtown, the skilled nursing facility, and its adjacent assisted living community, Lockwood Lodge, at 139 Toddy Hill Road. 

Thomas Gutner, president of Ashlar of Newtown, and Susan Judge, therapeutic recreation manager, honored the volunteers who give so much to bring joy to others.

“Our mission at Ashlar of Newtown is to do everything we can to enhance the quality of life of our residents. These wonderful volunteers, who so willingly lend a helping hand, make wishes come true and provide that something extra. They really contribute to our residents’ enjoyment of their life here at Ashlar,” said Mr Gutner during the mid-May event.

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Volunteers Inspire by Example,” special gift bags were presented to every volunteer, and those who gave more than 300 hours received an additional gift as well. This year, special honors were given to the following volunteers: Teena Bell, Elizabeth Clark, Audrey Heim, Sonja Liljengren, Pat Shelton, Peg Skillings, Marie Spagnolo, and all of the volunteers of Project Act for the daily delivery of newspapers to residents.

More than 100 teens each gave from 15 to 35 hours apiece of service this year, assisting staff and residents with programs, events, projects, and administrative tasks. Ryan E. Golankiewicz of Sandy Hook, a student at Fairfield Preparatory School, was presented with the Junior Volunteer Scholarship of $1,000. Ryan will be attending Villanova University’s School of Engineering in Pennsylvania to pursue a degree in chemical engineering.

Knettie Archard and Nancy Taylor of Golden Opportunities were acknowledged and thanked for providing Ashlar of Newtown with a steady stream of generous and committed volunteers throughout the year.  A special thank you was also extended to Debbie Osborne and Bernie Curran who went “above and beyond” for special companionship with matched residents.

Loyal pet therapy volunteer Jo Plunske gave a touching speech, accompanied by her canine friend Luke. Other pet therapy teams who also give joy to the residents include Charlotte Mitchell and Tully, Mary Simpson and Ivan, and Jane Hellman and Jeanna. Honorable mention also went to Zack Taylor and Jackie Bibeau for their expertise in leadership of activities at Lockwood Lodge.

The Newtown Fund and The Horticulture Club of Newtown were acknowledged for their generosity throughout the year, and several community groups were thanked for their support, including St Rose Church, Rainbow Girls, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts and Brownies, Daisies, and Jockey Hollow School students.