City thanks its volunteers

[attach]3992[/attach]As part of National Volunteer week Giselle Hudik was honoured by the city for her 2,800 volunteer hours at Castleview Wychwood Towers long term care facility.

She’s just one of seven volunteers who formed the Hungarian Association a decade ago to help keep the culture and traditions alive for Hungarian residents at the facility near Christie and Dupont. They organize bus excursions, Mass, luncheons, bring in foods to sample and help make the Hungarian residents feel at home.

This is just one of a dozen groups and individuals recognized on April 11 for their years of volunteering in 10 different city-run long term care facilities.

Last year, volunteers spent 137,000 hours in the city’s long term care facilities, which translates into 53 hours of extra care per resident, said Deputy Mayor Doug Holiday at the event.

“They support a wide range of programs that enrich people’s lives and connect them to the community,” he said in a press statement.

At Lakeshore Lodge, Joyce Dawson and three others were honoured for their nine years of volunteer service running a flower and garden program for residents.

[attach]3993[/attach]And volunteers have set up The Mitzvah Group to serve the Jewish residents who make up a quarter of the population at Cummer Lodge.

Volunteers cater their efforts to the needs and demographics of the city’s various old age homes.

Reverend Grace Kim and a dozen volunteers have set up a Korean hymn group at Kipling Acres.

“The songs they sing touch residents and fill their hearts with joy and the residents are encouraged to clap their hands and sing as they rejoice,” said Sandra Pitters, general manager of the city’s long term care homes.

Cam McKay has been an active volunteer for 13 years at East York True Davidson Acres where her mother is a resident. Her volunteer roles include dressing as Santa Claus at Christmas parties, helping with special events and working in the bistro and gift shop.