Our heroes at Summerville at Lakeview are volunteers Gary and JoEllen Hahn. They demonstrate ALFA’s philosophy of care and service by fostering independence and nurturing the spirit of each resident – and the staff as well.
Even though Gary’s mother has lived with us for almost four years and JoEllen’s father lived with us for a brief time, they have become “family” to all of our residents and employees. Despite their own personal health problems, they visit Lakeview several times a week – always with a smile, a laugh, a quick joke, a pat on the back, or a listening ear. They get to know everyone and everyone knows them; if the residents can’t remember their names, they recognize their bright faces and feel the love they spread. The residents “light up” when Gary and JoEllen walk in!
Gary and JoEllen are here twice a week during Bingo to assist the residents who need an extra hand (or eye) to find the number matches on their Bingo card. Many times they bring along special homemade treats for the players or make popcorn in the popcorn machine they donated to us. On Fridays they stay and serve as “hosts” for our entertainment Happy Hours.
When the residents go out to a restaurant for lunch, Gary and JoEllen go with us, and several evenings a week, JoEllen serves coffee and tea in the dining room during dinner. The laughter and conversation that they share as they visit each table brightens everyone’s day. They also help with big events like holiday parties and zoo outings and even recruit other volunteers for us!
Although we appreciate all the support they provide, their greatest gift to our residents is their ability to touch each one as an individual. They are generous with their time, energy, and love and we are all blessed to have them as a part of us.