Morning Pointe Senior Living and The Lantern at Morning Pointe memory care campuses in Chattanooga, Collegedale and Hixson acknowledged nearly 200 volunteers during a National Volunteer Week luncheon at Morning Pointe of Chattanooga at Shallowford.
Volunteers enjoyed a hearty brunch buffet, were presented with a 20th anniversary and shirt, and given all the hugs and appreciation they could receive.
But the celebration wouldn't be complete without a tribute performance from the Morning Pointe Choir -- a chorale composed of residents from all five area Morning Pointe communities -- to thank the volunteers.
"We cannot thank these special people enough for giving their time and talents to the betterment of our seniors,” said Holly Holcomb, life enrichment director at Morning Pointe. "Our volunteers are at the heart of what makes Morning Pointe a great place for our resident to thrive."
"These volunteers are special to my heart," said Carlene Miles, Morning Pointe resident, who shared a few words during the event about how much the volunteers mean to her. Miles also volunteers, holding a Sunday School class for residents every week. She is also in charge of the residents' weekly Prayer Warriors group.
For more than 20 years, Morning Pointe has partnered with local schools, churches, businesses and non-profit organizations to make a difference in the lives of others. These acts of kindness has inspired a yearlong volunteerism campaign called “Make Your Mark” to give back 20,000 hours of community service in 2017.
So far, the residents, associates, families and partners have worked together to give back more than 12,000 hours of service, with an economic impact of more than $275,000. Halfway to achieving their goal for the year, the senior campuses show no signs of slowing down as they seek more opportunities to pay it forward.
The “Make Your Mark” initiative underscores Morning Pointe's commitment to community involvement through life enrichment and intergenerational programs designed to promote healthy, active lifestyles for seniors.