Farmington Area Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Volunteers

FARMINGTON HILLS,MI – Several senior citizens and others who have given back to their communities were recently honored with the Gold Award at the annual volunteer breakfast sponsored by the Farmington Area Commission on Aging and the City of Farmington Hills Special Services Department Adults 50 & Better.

U.S. District Judge Terrence Berg delivered the keynote address to more than 200 guests at the Costick Center on April 7. The theme of the event, sponsored by Heartland of West Bloomfield and Marvin and Betty Danto, was “We’re Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Our Volunteers.”

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The Gold Award, recognizing the contributions of volunteers 50 and older, was presented to John and Janice Ricco. Both of the Riccos work with Gilda’s Club and are leaders of a cancer support group at St. Fabian Church. John Ricco is active in the Knights of Columbus.

The Margaret Loridas Diamond Award, given to an individual 75 years or older, was presented to Raymond Okonski. Okonski is a member of the Xemplar Club, supports art, culture, education, and human services, and is known for his wonderful magic tricks.

The Adults 50 & Better Awards are presented to individuals for outstanding volunteer work within the Adults 50 & Better Division.

The Robert A. Eastman S.A.G.E. Award was presented to Geraldine Kruger for working with elementary school students; the Loretta C. Conway Senior Division Award was presented to John Lepine for volunteering in the Adult Day Program and helping out around the Costick Center; and the Aldo Vagnozzi Spirit Award winner was presented to Ken Pool, a dedicated Meals-on-Wheels driver.

The Annual Volunteer Breakfast serves as an opportunity to honor all the dedicated volunteers who are vital to the programs and services offered to Adults 50 & Better of Farmington and Farmington Hills.

Programs and services such as Meals on Wheels, AARP Tax Services, S.A.G.E., Gift Shop, Sojourn Bears, Home Chore, and many other tasks depend on the commitment of volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, call (248) 473-1830 for more information.

Image: From left, Janice Ricco, John Ricco, Geraldine Kruger, Raymond Okonski, Ken Pool and John Lepine were honored with volunteer awards. (city of Farmington Hills photo)