SCC 2023 End of Year Recap

Remembering Beloved SCC Members this Season

Edward Muir

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"Playing cribbage with Ed was the highlight of my week. He was an incredibly bright man, adding way quicker than I could and catching combinations I never saw. A man of few words, there were rare occasions in which he opened his heart to me, a true blessing that I treasure deeply."

"I am so grateful for the opportunity to play cribbage regularly with Ed Muir. He brightened my life and inspired me in so many ways. I admired his independence and honesty, and his humor always made my day!"

Cindy Durham

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"Cindy/Mindy was a fighter over her illlness. She knew what she had to do to feel better each day. Her sense of humor throughout kept her going. She was always positive and grateful for Senior Community Connections as she was totally living alone. She expressed her gratefulness to our organization at every drive. She made us feel like we could conquer the world ...if we ever have to. We are stronger for having known Cindy/Mindy."

Donna Van Vleet

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"My first impression of Donna VanVleet was her graciousness. She took a great interest in each volunteer. She was such a favorite that there was never a shortage of volunteers who wanted to give her rides, help in her beloved garden, or do whatever she needed. My funniest memory was of making decorations for the annual Christmas tree under Donna’s leadership. She had been an art teacher in the schools, and that quickly became apparent. All of us helpers were cutting up, yakking, and making lots of mistakes because of it. She let us know, pleasantly but in no uncertain terms, that we needed to talk less and pay attention. We deserved it!"

George Montagno

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"I remember him as an extremely intelligent and thoughtful man who shared insightful ideas in a discussion group that he and Kathy attended. I knew him to be approachable and kind." 

Harriet McGuire

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"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day... unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear." - Alex MacLean

Ted Mullen

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"Spending time with Ted from April to November was truly the sweetest gift. Ted was always up for an adventure - watching boats at the marina, driving through the Davidson College campus (his alma mater), exploring the rollinh countryside, admiring beautiful flowers in the St. Albans garden and enjoying all kinds of food.

I am forever blessed for meeting Ted and his sister Sue and will always cherish our friendship and time spent together each week."

Ellen Giduz Receives First Annual

SCC Volunteer of the Year Award

Senior Community Connections is honored to name Ellen Giduz our first Volunteer of the Year, and we couldn't think of anyone more deserving of recognition for hard work and dedication to our mission! Ellen has contributed her time, talents, and skills to help in countless ways over the years. Her heart to serve seniors in the community tirelessly has made major impacts within our organization. We recognize and celebrate the value she brings to both members and volunteers.

Some of you may know that Ellen was one of the original group of concerned residents who came together to discuss the needs of older adults and establish the then Davidson Village Network.

Since that time she has been in every aspect of this organization and as such, there are many things that we could highlight about her dedication and commitment. But here are two:

The first is her dedication to the organization. Online during Covid, the amount of work this woman was doing as a volunteer was impressive. She was managing all of the requests that came in for service, training and managing volunteers, and coordinating background checks just to name a few. She and her husband were also providing many rides when they were needed in a pinch. 

Fast forward to last January when our then Chair left a bit earlier than expected and we needed someone to take on the role.  Ellen stepped up in a big way. This is perhaps best demonstrated through the new board members we have now. Having not been involved in Board development in the past, Ellen made it a goal to secure our Board. She did an outstanding job leading us in this process.

Equally, or perhaps more important than her dedication to the organization is Ellen’s devotion to our members. This is evident in the relationships she has with our members and volunteers. They love and appreciate her, and this is due to how she makes them feel and her efforts to serve and recognize them. Ellen always goes above and beyond.

Q & A with Ellen:

How long have you been volunteering with Senior Community Connections?

I started volunteering in 2015 when I was asked to join the Board. I set up the volunteer program and then ran it until Andrea took over in early 2023. I also did stints as the membership director and the president in recent years. I enjoyed it all!

What drew you to volunteering with Senior Community Connections?

I knew I wanted to volunteer with some organization on a flexible basis. This fits the bill. I also enjoy volunteering with adults, particularly my senior citizen contemporaries.

What motivates you to give back to the community?

The community has helped me SO MUCH since I moved here in 1981, it’s only right to give back.

What's your favorite thing about volunteering at SCC?

Easy—the people! Both members and volunteers.

Ellen will receive the first annual “Ellen Giduz Volunteer of the Year Award” which will be given each year to recognize outstanding service to SCC.  

If you are interested in learning more about opportunities to serve as one of our Board of Directors, please reach out to seniorslkn@gmail.com with a brief bio/background and your area of interest!

If you haven't had a chance to make your year end donation, it is not too late! Contributions help us to continue providing services, social opportunities, and support to older adults in our community. As a non profit, we rely on the generosity of our donors and we are grateful for your giving this holiday season. Click the button to help support our mission!

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