From left are Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels volunteers Michael Bobseine, Richard Carpenter, Mary Dee, Ann McIntyre, Sue Rocque, Peggy Sisson, Jim Steeg, Cindy Williams, Dan Lawrence, Donald Parker, Christina Lockett and Pastor Zoe Milliman.
More than 90 volunteers and guests were in attendance as Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels held its Volunteer Recognition Luncheon in June at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Dunkirk. Each year agency volunteers are celebrated for the many hours they give to Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels throughout the year.
Attendees received Meals on Wheels tote bags and pens. Merritt Winery also gifted attendees with small commemorative bottles of their famous Bella Rosa to celebrate another successful year of service to the community.
Board Chair Dan Lawrence served as emcee. “While we know that you choose to volunteer selflessly, and without expectation of being recognized or rewarded, today we wish to do just that,” stated Lawrence. “Whether you are a long-time volunteer or if you got involved fairly recently, and regardless of how many hours you choose to give, it’s important for you to know that what you do makes a difference.”
Debra Pacos, Executive Director for Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels welcomed everyone to the event.
“When you volunteer, you are making a commitment to share that most precious of resources – your time – to make life better for those who are in need,” Pacos said. “Your efforts make a tangible impact, of course, but perhaps it is the fact that you are willing to share your time and talent to lend a helping hand and to show kindness and caring that makes the greatest difference in the lives of the individuals who are touched by your generosity.”
Volunteer and Board member Kerry Askin led a sing-along featuring his hit song “We’re Meals on Wheels,” now an annual tradition.
Several local organizations received DFMOW Certificates of Appreciation for their long-time support: Aspire; Spoke Folk, The Resource Center, People Inc., Heritage Christian Services, Dunkirk Public Library, Tri-Church Parish and United Way.
Receiving service pins were Kathy Uszacki, one year; Kerry Askin, Carla Kuzdzal, Zoe Milliman, each with five years; Sara Marsowicz, 10 years; Karen Kwiatkowski, Rich Goodman, Bob Ehrheart, 15 years; Dennis Karin, 21 years; Carolyn Karin, 22 years; Joanne Kelly, 24 Years; Susan Gugino, 26 years; and Loretta Slaton-Torain, 32 years. Volunteers were also presented with Special Congressional Recognition Certificates by Christine McAllister, representative for Congressman Nick Longworthy. In addition, Lisa Vanstrom, representative for Sen. George Borrello presented Certificates of Recognition to each volunteer.
Special recognition was given to volunteers who joined Meals on Wheels in 2020, at the onset of the life-altering COVID-19 public health crisis. Over two dozen men and women stepped forward with the intent to support the safety and comfort of our older neighbors; seventeen have remained with the program. These volunteers were honored as the “2020 Heart of the Community” volunteers.
“During a most critical time in our history you brought so much more than a meal, you brought a reminder that community had a huge role to play as we navigated through the pandemic, and you were part of that,” Executive Director Debra Pacos told the group. “You brought about new friendships, a sense of connection and kindness – you gave reassurance that we are going to get through this, you brought positivity, hope, compassion and a smile…. even behind the mask.”
Among these community-minded citizens was Volunteer of the Year Emily Vandette.
“When I reflect back upon that very stressful and uncertain time, Emily is remembered as a ray of hope,” said Pacos. “Everything began shutting down around us, and suddenly we had 15 volunteer routes to cover. Then that first email inquiry came: ‘I imagine there may be a higher demand for this service during the COVID-19 crisis, so if you need another delivery volunteer, I would be happy to learn more about it.’”
Since that initial contact Vandette has gone above and beyond as a volunteer. In 2022 she and daughter Ellie launched our first Thanksgiving Pie Sale to raise funds for the program, baking the pies themselves. Last year the pie sale was expanded to offer a greater variety of pies through a collaboration with a non-profit baking company.
Vandette was presented with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition as well as a Proclamation from the New York State Senate in recognition of her outstanding community service.
“I am truly honored to receive this award, especially as I know first-hand how hard the staff and volunteers work to fill a vital need in the community,” stated Vandette. “Delivering meals and chatting with the clients on my route always puts a smile on my face. My family and I are excited to continue serving the organization and raising awareness about its mission in any way we can.”
Luncheon sponsors were Add Lumber, Basil Chevrolet Buick, Concord Pharmacy, Merritt Estate Winery, Moniuszko Social Club, Refresco, and Summit Wealth Management.
Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels is a community partner of the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County. The agency also receives funding in the form of grants and donations from individuals and area organizations and businesses.
Those interested in volunteering should contact Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels at (716) 366-8822, or email to dpacosdfmow@netsync.net. Volunteers generally devote about an hour each week to deliver meals between 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. They must undergo training and have reliable transportation.