The Phelps County AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program held its Winter New Volunteer Recognition event on Dec. 19 at the Phelps County Courthouse multipurpose room. The program extended special appreciation to several of its newest volunteers: Brenda Brown, Bernice Cain, Rebecca Coffman, Sue Papen and June Proctor.

Guest speaker Denine Grivetti from Three Rivers Hospice opened the celebration by expressing deep gratitude to the volunteers.

“What you do does not go unnoticed,” Grivetti said. “The level of empathy and compassion that you show means more to your clients than you realize. We wanted to take today to make sure you feel our gratitude and appreciation.”

Program staff member Lexie Mutch added, “Just knowing someone cares makes all the difference. Thank you to all of our Senior Companion volunteers for your generosity of spirit and for uplifting friends in our community.” 

The AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program sponsored by the Phelps County Commission appreciates those in the community that support the program and make it possible for the Winter New Volunteer Recognition to happen. Sponsors include Blossom Basket Florist, Cindy Bling, Kingsford Charcoal, Dr. David Myers, Phelps County Bank, Phelps County Focus, Sinks Pharmacy, Saint James Press, Walmart, Commissioner Hicks, Denine Grivetti from Three Rivers Hospice, Jeff Wallace from Centerwell Home Health, Tabitha Humburd from Aurora Health and Rehab. 

Fresh Milled Family Bakery catered the luncheon. Programs staff members include Peter Cook, Yvonne Leuthauser, Lexie Mutch and Scott Shaffer. 

The AmeriCorps Seniors Senior Companion Program focuses on connecting Americans aged 55 and older with volunteer opportunities to support other seniors and individuals with disabilities who need assistance with daily living tasks, reduce social isolation, and provide respite to family caregivers. They are located at 200 N Main St., Ste 308 in Rolla. For more information contact pcook.scp@gmail.com or call 573-458-6180.