Helping Seniors Age In Place: Bronxville Hero

BRONXVILLE, NY — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Veronica Bago, R.N., of Yonkers, who nominated Sherry Saturno of Tarrytown.

Name of the nominee:

Sherry Saturno.

Is the nominee considered an "essential worker"?

No.

What does the nominee do for work?

Executive Director of Gramatan Village in Bronxville, New York, a nonprofit that supports adults over 55 to age in place. Sherry is also a licensed clinical social worker. www.gramatanvillage.org

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?

Since the pandemic struck, Gramatan Village has remained open while staff continue to work remotely. Gramatan Village has been working harder than ever: opening free programming to the public; shopping for and delivering groceries to seniors; holding virtual activities for elders; collaborating with other nonprofits and community groups to help as many elders as possible; and even creating a Pen Pal Program with Bronxville Middle School students and seniors.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?

I think difficult times bring out someone’s true character. Whether Sherry’s teaching someone in their 80s how to use Zoom for the first time, or making sure seniors stay connected during the pandemic to avoid loneliness, she exudes such an upbeat perspective on aging. That makes the older adults she’s helping feel positive and encouraged too.

Thank you for all that you do, Sherry Saturno!

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.