Behind everything we do, there is a dedicated SCNOVA volunteer. Our volunteers create connections, offer support, spark joy, and help older adults remain active and engaged in the communities and hobbies they love. This spring, we had the privilege of celebrating some truly remarkable individuals whose generosity and dedication continue to shape SCNOVA and the community we serve in meaningful ways.
On April 21, three extraordinary SCNOVA volunteers — Marta Linares, Linda Puff, and Linda Shearer — were honored with a Town of Vienna Award recognizing individuals who go above and beyond in service to Vienna-area nonprofits.
As members of our hospitality crew, Marta, Linda, and Linda help create the welcoming and joyful atmosphere that makes SCNOVA events feel so special. Whether organizing decorations, setting up spaces, greeting guests, or quietly keeping things running behind the scenes, they bring warmth, kindness, and care to every gathering. Their efforts often happen outside of the spotlight, but their impact is felt by everyone who walks through our doors.
We are deeply grateful to celebrate these women and the spirit of service they represent.
Their recognition came during a meaningful month where we also gathered to celebrate selfless service at our annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at St. John Neumann. It was a pleasure to welcome many special guests, including Vienna Mayor Linda Colbert, and Virginia Delegates Holly Seibold and Karen Keys-Gamarra, who honored SCNOVA’s outstanding service to older adults in our community with a Commending Resolution.
Highlighted by delicious food and wonderful service from the students at Davis Career Center (DCC) Culinary Arts program, which provides vocational training for students with disabilities, we enjoyed an afternoon of lively conversation, well-deserved recognition, smiling faces, and heartfelt appreciation.
We also want to recognize our Service Pin Award recipients, who have gone above and beyond in service to SCNOVA:
- Charles Choi (also our newest board member!)
- Joe Cowden
- Patricia Ann Mantey
- Kim Carrol
- Andrew Aloush
- Michelle Shea
- Joanne Gryski
Equally inspiring is the dedication of Jean Bastien, Jayne Young, Wolf Scherer, and Doug White, each of whom volunteered an astounding 400 hours this year alone.
Another special moment was celebrating this year’s Ed Lowry Award recipients, Casey Tarr and Jack Tarr. Presented by Ed Lowry’s wife, Terri, the award recognizes exceptional service and leadership within SCNOVA. Casey and Jack have helped lead programs, including our Walking Club and Caregiver Support Group, creating countless opportunities for connection, wellness, and encouragement. (See the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon page here.)
And finally, we extend our deepest appreciation and congratulations to Rich Duesterhaus, recipient of the Aging Forward National Volunteer Award. Rich served as SCNOVA’s original Board Chair for 15 years and continues to serve on our Board of Directors today. His long-standing commitment, leadership, and belief in SCNOVA’s mission have helped shape the organization into what it is today.
Every volunteer hour, every ride provided, every event organized, every phone call answered, and every warm welcome offered helps older adults remain connected, supported, and engaged. Together, our volunteers are building a stronger, more compassionate community for everyone.
From Handy Helpers to Friendly Callers and Drivers, we are always looking for more volunteers to join us, especially in the summer months! If you would like to learn more, we encourage you to visit our website and review the volunteer opportunities and application.