First Anniversary—

Kevin’s Community Center Honors Volunteers

Kevin’s Community Center, a free health care clinic that operates at the town health department at Canaan House at Fairfield Hills, conducted a volunteer recognition program on Saturday, August 14, in celebrating its first anniversary.

The event formally honored the people who have donated their time and talents to the center during the past year. About 30 people attended. More than 125 clinical, medical, and nonclinical volunteers have contributed their time to the program during the past year.

Among the awards presented at the ceremony, five volunteers received plaques of recognition for their efforts.

Jack Hickey-Williams and Sue Stockman received awards as advisory board members of the year. Carin Newman was named the clinic volunteer of the year. Dr Marrietta Sonido was honored as the volunteer health care provider of the year. Elizabeth Divine was named the volunteer provider of the year.  

Dr Z. Michael Taweh helped establish the local medical clinic and center in the name of his late son, Kevin, who died an untimely accidental death in August 2002. Dr Taweh specializes in internal and geriatric medicine.

The center’s operation is based on a volunteer effort. More than 75 clinical and nonclinical volunteers schedule their time at the clinic months in advance. Fifty-four professional service providers offer specialized care, as needed. The center sees between 8 and 14 patients each week during its limited hours on Wednesdays.

Volunteers such as nurses and medical technicians deal directly with patients. Other volunteers perform administrative tasks, patient screening, and clerical duties.

The center is planning a black-tie fundraising gala for October 29.

Dr Taweh said the volunteer recognition event was intended to honor the many people who have generously donated their time and talents during the past year to make the center a success

“Our volunteers have made Kevin’s [Community Center] successful through community spirit, teamwork, and a commitment to launch our present and imagine our future. Volunteering brings people together and plays a key role in connecting people to one another, creating healthier families and a healthier Newtown community,” according to Dr Taweh.