‘Helping hands’ honoured at Mapleview
Volunteers earn tribute at luncheon

Mapleview Retirement Residence administrator Cindy McGriskin (right) and PSW Sherry Fido hold a “Helping Hands” painting which included thumbprints from some of the guests at their annual volunteer appreciation lunch. – Bill Freeman/Metroland
Norwood — Mapleview Retirement Residence’s “helping hands” were honoured on April 21.
The Norwood retirement centre paid tribute to its team of volunteers with a luncheon to help kick off national volunteer appreciation week.
“They mean a lot to us and they do a lot,” says Mapleview activity director Tiffany Martel. “A lot of the things we do are because of them, like the library service and church service. I don’t even see some of them, but you know they are just going to be here for you.”
There are approximately 60 volunteers who help out at Mapleview and they bring a range of life experiences with them, she said.
“They’re always here no matter what and they’re always willing to help.”
Tiffany Martel
Mapleview Activity DirectorSpecial events like the community appreciation barbecue and Christmas celebration come together with the help of local volunteers; musicians visit regularly to perform, others help with games and other events.
“They’re always here no matter what and they’re always willing to help,” Martel said.
During the tribute, guests were invited to put their thumbprint on a painting that symbolized the “helping hands” theme celebrated at the lunch.