Photo courtesy of Woodstock Terrace
Anne Herz of Woodstock doing what she loves best
WOODSTOCK — At 79, local resident Anne Herz shows no signs of slowing down. Well into her retirement, Herz has been donating a large portion of her time volunteering for The Thompson Senior Center, which acts as a resource and advocate for the local senior population, providing timely support on issues that affect aging within the community. Their programs and activities promote the physical, intellectual, and social well-being of the adult community to enhance dignity, self-worth and independence. In addition, the senior center provides a gathering place for the local community.
Because of Herz’ commitment to giving back to the community through her volunteerism, Woodstock Terrace Assisted Living is presenting her with the Woodstock Terrace Senior Service Award. The Thompson Senior Center and Herz are each being given a $500 gift from Woodstock Terrace as part of the award. Woodstock Terrace presented the checks to both recipients at a special ceremony on Aug. 31 at 3 p.m.
“I’m truly honored to be receiving the Woodstock Terrace Senior Service Award,” said Herz. “I don’t volunteer for recognition; I do it because I love it. I’ve met so many wonderful people through the Thompson Senior Center, both seniors and fellow volunteers. The services they provide are vital to so many within our community. Even if people are unable to come to the center anymore because of health reasons, I visit them on my own time. I honestly get more back than I give. I’m honored to be a part of such an amazing organization and mission.”
Herz has been volunteering with the Thompson Senior Center for six years. She volunteers in the dining room and helps serve lunch once a week. She’s a co-facilitator for two support groups for caregivers of family members with Alzheimer’s and dementia – the monthly Caregiver Support Group and the weekly Early Stage Memory Support Group. She also helps fill transportation needs when local seniors need assistance running errands.
“Anne has proven to be a vital part of our organization,” said Deanna Jones, executive director of the Thompson Senior Center. “She volunteers at our annual flu shot clinic and fills in for the blood pressure clinic as needed. She is a willing and delightful volunteer if other specific needs arise here at the Center. Her bright smile and happy demeanor make her a favorite of participants and staff. She not only serves here at the Senior Center but also gives her time at the local Hand in Hand community suppers and at her church. She truly exemplifies leadership, spirit and citizenship, and she inspires us all!”
“Anne is the perfect example of why we do this award,” said Eric Fritz, executive director at Woodstock Terrace. “In addition to the many ways she volunteers at the Thompson Senior Center, she also gives her time once a month here at Woodstock Terrace, visiting the residents and hosting the social hour. You can see it on her face that she loves what she does. She brings so much joy to everyone she serves. Our community is lucky to have her.”
For more information, visit www.terracecommunities.com.
