Volunteers Recognized at Veal Center Osceola County, FL: On April 23 at the Veal Center, the Osceola Council on Aging recognized and honored volunteers with an ice cream social for their services to our community. More than 250 volunteers were on hand to enjoy the party with entertainment and ice cream desserts. Each year a week in April is set aside to honor volunteers for their contributions to our communities. This year National Volunteer Week was April 19 – 25 and the Volunteer Center of the Osceola Council on Aging was proud to not only express appreciation for all volunteers but also to recognize several volunteers for their long time services to the community. "Though we've had challenges in our community, volunteers have been the strength to help us navigate this stormy time," stated Nan Johnston, Chairman of the Volunteer Services Center Advisory Board. "Without their dedication and involvement, Osceola County would not benefit from the many services and programs that are available," she continued. The Volunteer Center currently manages and supports more than 1,500 volunteers serving in health care, government and nonprofit organizations throughout Osceola County. Five residents received distinguished volunteer awards during the event, recognized for their outstanding services to our community. Angel Custodio received the Outstanding Youth Volunteer award for her time spent with the Council on Aging's Adult Health Day Care Program. Howard Gumbs received the Golden Choice Award from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs for his work with the Council on Aging's Senior Companion program. Karl and Ady Bay were recognized as Volunteers of the Year for 2009. Karl and Ady volunteer as Commission Ambassadors during Osceola County Board of County Commissioners meetings. And finally, Joseph Koch was awarded the Presidents Volunteer Service Award presented by Beverly Hougland, a commissioner on the Governor's Commission on Volunteerism. "I've had the good fortune to work with some of the most wonderful and giving people in our community," stated Connie Bellanceau, Volunteer Center Director. "I see first hand their compassion and dedication. I wish we could express our appreciation by recognizing everyone...and with these words, I hope they realize how important they are to Osceola County," she continued. "We are all so very proud of all our volunteers but especially the persons recognized today for their unselfish and dedicated efforts to make Osceola County a better community," stated Beverly Hougland, CEO of the Council on Aging.    A special recognition and thank you on behalf of the Council on Aging's Volunteer Center for our signature sponsor...WELLMED...Your Healthcare Companion for Life. Other sponsors include...Ameri-Life, Financial Freedom, Plantation Bay Rehab, Valvoline Express, Osceola Engineering, Kissimmee Carpet/Tile, H2U Osceola Regional, AAA Reverse Mortgage, Avante at St. Cloud, Harmony Development, Samaritan Care hospice, CenterState Bank, Poffenbaugh Ford/Lincoln Mercury and OUC, The Dependable One. Should you have interest in the Volunteer Center, please contact Connie Bellanceau, Volunteer Services Director, at 407-933-9525 to register. Back To Special Events
	Osceola Council on Aging Barney E. Veal Center 700 Generation Point Kissimmee, FL 34744 info@osceolagenerations.org Phone: 407-846-8532 Fax: 407-846-8550