Contributed by Carol Mattar, AgeOptions
Twenty-nine volunteers were honored for their service and dedication to older adults in their communities at the 36th annual Volunteer Recognition hosted by AgeOptions. The event was sponsored by HealthSpring.
Volunteers were nominated by organizations in their communities, where they provide a variety of services for older adults.
“AgeOptions and our partner agencies in communities throughout suburban Cook County appreciate the dedicated volunteers whose time and talents contribute so much to improving the quality of life for older adults,” said Jonathan Lavin, president and CEO of AgeOptions, the Area Agency on Aging of suburban Cook County.
Ruth Foley was nominated by Oak Park Township Senior Services. A volunteer for more than two years, Ruth helps older adults with money management problems through the volunteer money management program sponsored by AARP Illinois. She is very well organized and gets a great sense of accomplishment from being able to help others. A former Chicago area teacher, she also volunteers as a tutor with the League of Women voters.
Nancy Teclaw was nominated by the Senior Citizens Center of Oak Park River Forest. Nancy has been a volunteer for more than five years and has been instrumental in keeping the center moving forward in difficult economic times. Through her social networking skills, she keeps the center running both fiscally and through in-kind services to maintain senior services and activities. She has been involved in senior services for more than 30 years, including serving as chair of the AgeOptions Advisory Council in 1983-1984. Nancy enjoys music, weaving, travel and her grandchildren.