Muskoka Seniors celebrates its volunteers at annual gala

At a recent volunteer appreciation gala, Muskoka Seniors celebrated the people who spend many hours each year ensuring that local seniors remain independent. The theme was “volunteers are everyday heroes” and each volunteer received a Laura Secord treat at their place setting, a reminder that, like Secord, a heroine of the War of 1812, they are dedicated and loyal heroes too.

“For our seniors, every time you drive them to a doctor’s appointment, have a friendly visit with them, deliver a meals on wheels package or help them at a friendship luncheon, you are their hero,” said Sarah Caswell, Muskoka Seniors Program Co-Ordinator. “You have helped them stay living independently in their own home and community, just where they want to be.”

“Many of you have worked tirelessly throughout our community to make it a better place for our seniors and we do truly feel privileged to work alongside you and to celebrate you,” added Executive Director Donna Nairns.

She also thanked Muskoka Seniors staff member Karen Waters, who has been with the organization for 20 years. “She has been a steadfast force, providing mentorship, guidance and friendship to staff, to our clients and to our volunteers. She has touched the lives of many and has in turn had her life touched.”

Dignitaries MP Tony Clement, MPP Norm Miller and Deputy Mayor Karin Terziano offered up their thanks to the volunteers as well. Clement presented a certificate to Muskoka Seniors for its service and support of seniors in the community.

Muskoka Seniors is a volunteer charitable organization that helps seniors live independently and at home for as long as possible. Their programs include drivers, friendly visitors, telephone volunteers, friendship luncheons, meals on wheels and even income tax returns.

Ron Nairn (left) and Frank Jones greet volunteers in style

The Fernglen Fiddleheads provided entertainment for the event

Steve Nairn (left) serves up lemonade to volunteers Glenna and Dan Armour

There were many beautiful prizes up for grabs in the door prize draw, thanks to Muskoka Seniors staff member Danica Armour who gathered the many donations

Karen Raaflaub (left) serves up tasty hors d’oeuvres to volunteers

Shirley and Rudy Weiss (left) have their photo taken by Stephen DeCaro

Muskoka Seniors staff Rick Hofstetter (left)and Karen Raaflaub

Festive crackers started the luncheon with a bang

Muskoka Seniors Executive Director Donna Nairn (left) and Program Co-ordinator Sarah Caswell thank the volunteers for their many hours of service

MP Tony Clement presents a certificate to Donna Nairn and Sarah Caswell

Donna Nairn (left) and Sarah Caswell (right) presented a bouquet to Karen Waters in recognition of 20 years of employment with the organization

Don’t miss out on Doppler! Sign up for our free newsletter here.