Volunteer Rosaleen Dugan has spent the past 13 years bringing smiles to the faces of the residents of Syracuse Home. “This is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Dugan said.
Dugan enjoys her role as a volunteer by sharing her friendly, cheerful disposition with the residents. As a physical therapy transport aide, she has plenty of time to get to know them-and great friendships emerge from the time she spends with them each week. “They are all special. I love them all,” she said. Last year, Dugan donated nearly 300 volunteer hours to Syracuse Home.
“I am good with the residents because I have empathy. I put myself in their shoes. I hope someday someone smiles at me like I smile at them,” said Dugan. She recently sent a postcard from Ireland to Syracuse Home resident Harry Maddeford after learning they had a common interest in worldwide travel. Both had visited the same Irish pub in Ireland and had great conversations about their love of the country. Without a doubt, Dugan goes above and beyond her normal volunteer duties to make a difference. In celebration of National Volunteer Week, Syracuse Home honors and acknowledges all 138 volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to the residents’ wellbeing. “Our volunteers add tremendous value to our organization through their unending commitment to our residents,” said Kelly Glover, volunteer coordinator at Syracuse Home. Volunteers help out with church services, unit activities, bingo, outings, data entry, crafts and much more. They are also encouraged to share their hobbies and musical talents with the residents. A special recognition celebration for volunteers will take place in June.
“It is our way of saying thank you for nearly 6,000 hours of volunteer service in 2010. All of our volunteers are a vital part of providing quality of life for our residents,” Glover said. Interested in volunteering? Contact Glover at 638-2521 x1400.
“We need help with friendly visiting and daily activities, especially in our Sage Court memory care unit. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend one-to-one time with residents who are in the beginning stages of memory loss,” Glover said. Syracuse Home Health & Rehabilitation Center is a not-for-profit organization that offers a continuum of healthcare programs and services for older adults. All programs and services are conveniently located on a beautiful 140-acre campus at 7740 Meigs Road, Baldwinsville.