NEWS

 

Senior Community Connections is honored to name Ellen Giduz our first Volunteer of the Year, and we couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of recognition for hard work and dedication to our mission! Ellen has contributed her time, talents, and skills to help in countless ways over the years. Her heart to serve seniors in the community tirelessly has made major impacts within our organization. We recognize and celebrate the value she brings to both members and volunteers.

Some of you may know that Ellen was one of the original group of concerned residents who came together to discuss the needs of older adults and establish the then Davidson Village Network.

Since that time she has been in every aspect of this organization and as such, there are many things that we could highlight about her dedication and commitment. But here are two:

The first is her dedication to the organization. Online during Covid, the amount of work this woman was doing as a volunteer was impressive. She was managing all of the requests that came in for service, training and managing volunteers, and coordinating background checks just to name a few. She and her husband were also providing many rides when they were needed in a pinch. 

Fast forward to last January when our then Chair left a bit earlier than expected and we needed someone to take on the role.  Ellen stepped up in a big way. This is perhaps best demonstrated through the new board members we have now. Having not been involved in Board development in the past, Ellen made it a goal to secure our Board. She did an outstanding job leading us in this process.

Equally, or perhaps more important than her dedication to the organization is Ellen’s devotion to our members. This is evident in the relationships she has with our members and volunteers. They love and appreciate her, and this is due to how she makes them feel and her efforts to serve and recognize them. Ellen always goes above and beyond.

Q & A with Ellen:

How long have you been volunteering with Senior Community Connections?

I started volunteering in 2015 when I was asked to join the Board. I set up the volunteer program and then ran it until Andrea took over in early 2023. I also did stints as the membership director and the president in recent years. I enjoyed it all!

What drew you to volunteering with Senior Community Connections?

I knew I wanted to volunteer with some organization on a flexible basis. This fits the bill. I also enjoy volunteering with adults, particularly my senior citizen contemporaries.

What motivates you to give back to the community?

The community has helped me SO MUCH since I moved here in 1981, it’s only right to give back.

What’s your favorite thing about volunteering at SCC?

Easy—the people! Both members and volunteers.

Ellen will receive the first annual “Ellen Giduz Volunteer of the Year Award” which will be given each year to recognize outstanding service to SCC.  

If you are interested in learning more about opportunities to serve as one of our Board of Directors, please reach out to [email protected] with a brief bio/background and your area of interest!