Each year Lutheran chooses one volunteer to be honored at the Western New York Leading Age Recognition Dinner, held in Buffalo. Warren Nelson of Edgewood Communities was recognized for his 13 years of volunteer service to the residents at Lutheran.
"Warren is one of our most faithful and dependable volunteers," said Suellen Carlson, director of volunteers. "The residents and staff have come to know him and look forward to seeing him every Wednesday, either on the units or in the hallways as he transports our people to and from the beauty shop."
He also volunteers his time to be an independent reviewer for G.A. Family Services.
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From left: Suellen Carlson, volunteer director for Lutheran, presents Warren Nelson with a plaque honoring him as the Volunteer of the Year. Helen Sorenson, a resident of the Lutheran Home and Rehabilitation Center, joins in the celebration.
Submitted photo
"This came as a complete surprise, and I'm honored to receive this award," Nelson said. "I enjoy giving a little something back. Over the years I've grown close to the residents and look forward to seeing them each week."
Nelson and his wife, Anne, have been residents on the Lutheran Campus for 12 years.
The volunteers at Lutheran help transport residents to therapy, the beauty shop, the dentist, the podiatrist and accompany residents to doctors' appointments. They also run the gift shop.
"We appreciate all the love and compassion they bring to our residents," Carlson said. "We interview each volunteer to learn their preferences, and we match them to the activity they would enjoy the most."
For more information about volunteering at Lutheran, call 665-8090.