More than 60 people attended HAWC’s Volunteer Celebration on Tuesday, June 16, at the Hawthorne Hotel in Salem, Mass. The annual event is designed to recognize the people who have volunteered for the agency in 2015.
HAWC’s volunteers provide support in a variety of areas, including answering hotline calls, acting as legal advocates in the courts, assisting with the set-up and break-down of the agency’s annual walk, and other tasks as needed.
After enjoying dinner, each volunteer in attendance was recognized with a certificate of gratitude for their dedication to HAWC.
“It seems like every time I go out into the communities we serve, I hear another story about how wonderful our volunteers are,” said Anthony DiPietro, HAWC’s executive director. “You aren’t just appreciated by us staff; the clients and communities we serve also recognize the excellent work you all do for HAWC.”
Two volunteers, Taryn Jacques of Danvers and Janie Shields of Rockport, were named volunteers of the year for their unwavering commitment to serving the agency whenever possible. Shavon Williams, now a shelter advocate for the agency, was named Intern of the Year for her exceptional support when she interned in 2014.
Vika Kokhan, HAWC’s director of Operations who has been with the agency for more than 10 years, received the Employee of the Year award for her willingness to always go above and beyond.
In addition to these recognitions, Ben Waxman of Salem and Stephen Feron of South Hamilton, who have served on the agency’s Board of Directors for seven and eight years, respectively, were publically recognized for their service. Incumbent board president Linda Puopolo and board secretary Meredith Flanagan also specially recognized Ray Carey, president of the board who is stepping down after being involved with HAWC for more than 20 years.
HAWC is deeply grateful to the people who have volunteered their time to the agency. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Kelsea Dixon, volunteer coordinator, at 978.744.2299 ext. 118.