Interfaith's 'Serving Our Seniors' program out in force February 23

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Legions of volunteers devoted a beautiful Saturday to Interfaith's ‘Serving Our Seniors (S.O.S.)’ service program for seniors in the community February 23, to do various projects for seniors still residing in their homes, but physically unable to maintain them.

Members of philanthropic organizations, employees of local corporations, and residents have been participating in the 8-year program initiated in 2005 by Interfaith of The Woodlands.

“This is just one of the many ways Interfaith gives back to the community,” said Keith Weaver of The Woodlands Township, who spearheads the project, supervising the contractors and working with Interfaith who coordinates the volunteer organizations.

The National Charity League were among some of the community volunteers on Saturday. The students were asked what they would be doing on such a beautiful day if they weren’t participating in the Serving Our Seniors project.

“Sleeping,” said Colin Frick of The John Cooper School, Frank Masuelli, and Sam Burgess of The Woodlands High School. Nick Malinowski, also of TWHS replied, “Board sailing in Galveston.”

Participating with the NCL team were parents Anne Frick, Mark Malinowski, and Frank Masuelli.

As with other volunteers working throughout the community, they gave yards a complete make-over; flower beds were weeded, leaves raked, dead tree limbs were removed, and gutters were cleaned.

Dropping by to personally thank the volunteers were Dr. Ann Snyder, Interfaith President and CEO, and Missy Herndon, Interfaith’s Director of Programs and Services.

“It’s a wonderful gift the volunteers give to the community,” said Dr. Snyder.

In addition to the NCL, other volunteers working throughout The Woodlands represented Interact, the Rotary Club’s youth organization which is comprised of students from College Park and The Woodlands High School, St. Anthony of Padua Catholic parish, the Lord of Life Congregation, the Woodlands LaCrosse team, Power Fastpitch Softball, and more.

“The volunteers are working at 26 homes and 20 apartments in The Woodlands today,” said Herndon. “That even includes cleaning bar-b-ques, and indoor projects like housework."

“It’s all about people helping people,” added Dr. Snyder.

The volunteers enjoyed breakfast and lunch refreshments provided by the homeowner.

“It’s not required or expected,” said Raymona Lewis, Director of Senior Services at Interfaith, “but always appreciated.”

The ‘Serving Our Seniors’ program is held twice a year. The fall project was held last October 13, 2012. The 2013 spring date was pulled forward to avoid conflicting with The Woodlands marathon like last spring. The speed and endurance with which the volunteers worked, would make them serious contenders for this year’s marathon.

For more information about the S.O.S. project, call Interfaith of The Woodlands or visit the website at the link provided.