At the Joseph L. Morse Geriatric Center Volunteers are the Heart of Our Home, and the three volunteers recognized as our Volunteers of the Quarter are no exception. Their commitment to improving the quality of life of our residents is matched only by the enthusiasm and energy that they bring to the Center each and every day.

This quarters outstanding volunteers, who were selected by the residents, staff and other volunteers, include two veteran volunteers and one newcomer to the Morse family.

Sue Walsh has been a volunteer since 1986. Sue originally began volunteering with her late husband David, and has continued over the years. Several days a week, you can find Sue working with the members of the Schaffer Adult Day Center or in the Morse Center assisting with activities in the Therapeutic Recreation department. Sue also teaches classes in ceramics and crafts at the center. When Sue is in the Center, our residents feel a real sense of home, they feel very secure and relaxed with her, said Therapeutic Recreation Program Director Maria Leonardo.

Selma Warren has been a volunteer since 1995. She began her volunteering career assisting with the pet therapy program and as a friendly visitor, dropping in to spend time with the residents. Today she is a volunteer in the Garden Court Gift Shop. Director of Volunteer Services Ziona Rubinsztejn says, Selma feels that each and every resident is like a member of her extended family.

Arnold Kauffman joined the Volunteers Services department in June 2001, and soon found his niche assisting with our Religious Services on Fridays an Saturdays. Residents Roz Abrams and Jack Helfand speak of Arnold warmly, recalling his Saturday visits. Arnold is a WWII veteran, he comes on Saturdays and we talk over lunch, hes a great friend to have around, says Jack Helfand, president of the Morse Geriatric Resident Council.

Opened in July 1983, the Joseph L. Morse Geriatric Center provides long-term care to the communitys frail elderly. The Center is home to 280 residents. Alternative community-based services are offered through its affiliate agency, the Lola & Saul Kramer Senior Services Agency, Inc.