volunteer pg 8 6-1-23
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- Category: Current Issue
PUTNAM — Recreation Director Willie Bousquet noted that 18 months have flown by since the new Municipal Complex opened, and the Community Room has been the home base weekdays from approximately 9 a.m.to 1 p.m. for the Commission on Aging (COA) activities. “This all would not be happening without our volunteers,” said Bousquet. “From the teams that assist during lunches, run a fun activity, are on the commission, we wanted to show appreciation.” More than 25 volunteers gathered recently for a delicious brunch catered by the Putnam Schools Food Service program, and to hear sincere words of thanks from Bousquet. A heartfelt thank you card from Mayor Seney and Director Bousquet was distributed to each volunteer as well.
TVCCA offers a nutritional lunch at 11:30 for those aged 60 and over. A simple form is required to sign up, and then you order your meals two days in advance. A $3 donation is requested for the meal.
The COA, along with volunteers and attendees, offer a variety of activities open to anyone age 50 and over. A walking group, crafts, and exercise classes are just a few of the fun things to do. Bingo and “Trip Club” garner big attendance said Bousquet. Bingo is administered by the PHS Helping Hands Transitions Program, and they bring in the crowd each week. The “Trip Club” offers bus trips to affordable lunch locations in the region. Reasonably priced, they are also a big hit.
COA uses the “VoiceFriend” communication app to get its messages out. You choose to get the messages via voicemail, email, or text. There is a simple form to sign up for VoiceFriend in the Community Room, in the Recreation Office (2nd floor), and on the town website: https://www.putnamct.us/government/commissions/commission-on-aging.
Director Bousquet is seeing this program grow and predicts continued growth as the word of mouth spreads the seeds. “There are always activities coming and good news to share. Please join us!” he said.
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