Nearly 300 volunteers saddled up for a hoedown Thursday at the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center, in honor of National Volunteer Week.
“We are so grateful for the key role our volunteers play in our ability to serve seniors and the community, and want to celebrate them so they can see that they are a big part of our family,” said Robin Clough, volunteers and recreation coordinator at the center.
The center throws a party for their volunteers annually to recognize them for their impact. This event was country-themed and featured live music, a raffle, dancing and food. Volunteers also received a certificate for being outstanding members of the SCV senior community.
Volunteers not only prepare and deliver 62,520 meals to homebound seniors and serve over 48,000 meals at the center annually but also help the center with instructing classes, facilitating groups, planning events or trips, being musicians and assisting administration.
“When I retired, I wanted something to do,” said Catherine Kopp, who has been volunteering at the center for four years now. “And I really enjoy it. I have fun with the people, and it keeps me busy. I know on Thursday that’s what I’m doing, because I’m a Thursday driver.”
Kopp and Rebecca Murphy help deliver meals and canned food to the seniors who are homebound, and they both see the importance of the service they’re providing.
“They are very appreciative of us,” Murphy said. “It’s important for them to visit with us and to get the food, and it makes you happy to see them happy.”
The center has approximately 300 volunteers who collectively contribute 51,619 hours annually.
“They are the backbone of the senior center,” Clough said. “They share their hearts, time, hard work, all for the mission of ensuring quality of life for seniors. We’re really lucky.”
