On September 8, 2022, Sr. Catherine Cummings, Mercy Care’s Mission Director, welcomed all to Mercy Care’s Annual Friendship Picnic at Camp Guggenheim in Saranac Lake. Sr. Catherine opened the celebration by saying, “We express our gratitude to our kind and compassionate Friendship Volunteers, Parish Nurses, and Caregiver Friends.” Sr. Catherine introduced Melissa Eisinger, Mercy Care’s Board President, to present Mercy Care’s Volunteer Recognition Awards.
Melissa remarked, “We host Mercy Care’s Friendship Picnic each year to celebrate older adults in our community and to honor and recognize the extraordinary gifts of friendship, kindness, and assistance given to their elder neighbors by Mercy Care Volunteers. The Board is most grateful to our Volunteers for making Mercy Care’s mission possible.”
Volunteer of the Year – Jill Zagrobelny
Presentation of the Catherine McAuley Medallion
Jill Zagrobelny of Saranac Lake was awarded the Catherine McAuley Medallion presented to the Volunteer who has served for two or more years, has given outstanding service, and exemplifies the values of Mercy Care. Catherine McAuley founded the Sisters of Mercy in Ireland in 1831. She reached out with courage and love to people in need of her time as we strive to reach out to our elder neighbors in need in our time.
Jill exemplifies what Catherine McAuley taught us about mercy and compassion as she serves elders in our community.
Over 100 Hours of Volunteer Service
Mercy Care remains deeply grateful to all of our volunteers, with some contributing over 100 hours this past year to enhance the lives of their elder friends and caregivers. Volunteers with over 100 hours were recognized and included Paul Guerrette, Alanna Fox, Darlene Donnelly, Sr. Denise Wilke, and Martha Holmes
Five, Ten, and 15 Year Service Awards
Mercy Care honored those who have given five, ten, and 15 years of volunteer service with Mercy Care and included: Five-year Pins were awarded to: Alanna Fox, Martha Holmes, Bob Gardner, Jacci Gardner, Michelle Dunworth, Judy Meagher, George Morawetz, Kathy Strack, Paul Cassot, and Ed Cassot. Ten-year Pins were awarded to Linda Jones, RN, Kathy Lamb, RN, Claire Thayer, Mary Welch, Rip Allen, and Susanne Praeger. Fifteen-year Pins were awarded to Sheila Venezia, Sr. Denise Wilke, and Barbara Erickson, to whom we are especially grateful.
Sarah Kane, Mercy Care’s Elder Care Manager, presented Mercy Care’s special awards.
Margie Gallagher – Appreciation Award
Since becoming a Friendship Volunteer in 2019, Margie has assisted multiple elders and participated in new projects, initiatives, and trainings with enthusiasm and compassion. Margie exemplifies Catherine McAuley’s spirit as she reaches out to share her courage and love with those in need.
Catherine Johnston – Novice Volunteer of the Year
Since becoming a friendship volunteer in the fall of 2021, Cathy has demonstrated outstanding dedication, commitment, and caring companionship to her elder neighbors.
Alanna Fox – Caring Heart Award
A Caring Heart takes time to listen, reaches out to help in times of need, and positively impacts the community. In her role as a Friendship Volunteer for the past 5 years, Alanna exemplifies what it means to care.
Roger Gorham – World of Difference Award
The World of Difference Award was awarded to Roger Gorham for his compassionate, dependable, and responsive care to elders in our community. Roger has been a Mercy Care Friendship Volunteer since 2011 and has assisted countless elders in our tri-lakes communities.
