Celebrating National Volunteer Appreciation Week
Remember Patty Illuzzi who worked in the office a few years ago? Well, when Patty retired from Mane Stream she put all her free time into her Bees. Now, her business Long Meadow Bee Works supplies several local businesses with honey, candles, hand soap, and beeswax holiday ornaments. Thanks Patty!!
Mane Stream celebrated National Volunteer Week from April 22-27, with 48 of our dedicated volunteers who filled 78 volunteer spots putting in 175 hrs over the course of the week! This is a 25% increase over last year, so no wonder we feel like 2024 is just BUZZing right along.
By now you’ve probably noticed the theme…BEEs! Volunteer Coordinator, Emily De Jong, and trusty Assistant, Renae Flanagan, pushed the Bee theme even further by connecting with local honey farmer and artist, Patty Illuzzi, for a sweet treat giveaway. The volunteers had the option of choosing the cute jar of honey and dipper or a small bottle of essential oils. Each day of the week the volunteer teams enjoyed an abundance of snacks both savory and sweet in between the riding lessons, therapy sessions, and field trip visits.
Working together, we have fostered a supportive and empowering atmosphere where individuals flourish. The hard work and generosity of our volunteers has been instrumental in Mane Stream's success, and we eagerly anticipate continuing this journey together for the rest of the year.
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHTS
This year we turned the spotlight on 6 more volunteers with varying degrees of experience with Mane Stream’s programs. Please take a moment to read what they had to share.
Dana Roundsaville - My only regret is that I didn’t start sooner!
Debra & Bessie Huggins - We’re happy, chatty, and relaxed on the drive home!
Laura Edelson & Karen Ricciardi - Sister Duo says, “It’s an extra special experience!”
Wolfy Nicolaides - Interesting Backgrounds Make for Versatile Volunteers
Shannon Santoro - I Can See That I Make a Difference!
Avery Boarts - Allowing This Experience to Strengthen Myself!
Looking back on the whirlwind of the past year and celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week, we can't help but beam with gratitude for the incredible contributions of each and every volunteer. Their unwavering commitment to Mane Stream and all our participants is the secret sauce that keeps our community buzzing with energy!
Thank you for bee-ing such fabulous volunteers!
