Citing the hundreds of hours from volunteers working with Arlington County’s 55+ centers, County Board Chairman Libby Garvey said, “If we had to pay these volunteers, it would have cost the County $230,545.16.” She also said, “There are over 250 programs offered at the five centers ranging from recreation, education, fitness, arts, travel, technology, wellness and many more.”
Garvey’s remarks were made at a Leadership Recognition Luncheon held Thursday, June 27 hosted by The Jefferson. Dave Litman, chair of the Senior Adult Council, emceed the luncheon.
Director of Parks and Recreation Jane Rudolph expressed her appreciation for the volunteers who take such pride in their support of volunteerism. She also installed the 2024 Senior Adult Council: Chairman Dave Litman, vice chair Marilyn Marton, secretary Tom Curtis and treasurer Valerie Turner.
Jennifer Collins, 55+ Unit manager announced Special Recognition Awards to Carolyn Bainer, Lynn Berry, Ed Girovasi and Phil Rosen. Bainer is a volunteer at the Walter Reed 55+ Center where she spends countless hours researching and workshopping arts programs. Berry is a Master Gardener and teaches gardening through the Social 60+Garden at the Langston-Brown 55+ Center. Dual recognition went to local musicians Ed Girovasi and Phil Rosen who support the Acoustic Café at the Walter Reed Center and volunteer their musical talents at various centers.
Cheryl Johnson, CRD Division Chief, announced Andrea Walker as Volunteer of the Year.
Walker was instrumental in developing the Walking School Bus program which also received national recognition. Walker, a member of the Aurora Hills 55+ Center, also started Fast Forwards, a fast paced walking club.
Each center has a Director along with an advisory committee (volunteer). There is also a Senior Adult Council (SAC) (volunteer) and an Alliance for Arlington Senior Programs, (AASP) a non-profit which raises funds for additional programs (volunteer). The centers also have different agendas while adhering to enriching the lives of their participants through a wide variety of programs.