Heritage Manor News: Importance of volunteers

(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted by Patricia Duplechin, resident activity director at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Ville Platte. This column runs every Sunday in The Gazette.)
The responsibility of recruiting and coaching volunteers differs from working with paid individuals. It was once said that “even if a home has unlimited funds, the services and role of a volunteer cannot be replaced with money.” This statement is so very true. Volunteers bring something special, light hearted spirits and energy with shiny new light. Volunteers bring passion and go beyond expectations to bring whatever is necessary. It is not a job or a duty to this caring individuals. They help combat depression. The primary reason the volunteer wants to join your team may be to share a special talent, build a resume, learn people skills or meet new people. No matter what the motive, volunteers are a wonderful part of our community.
We salute our Volunteer of the Year Ollie Bright for her 25 years of service to our residents.
We thank all of our volunteers that attended our supper and our friends Bobby Dardeau and Mable Foreman for the picture taking and door greeter LaQuinta Duplechin for her time and sister Lucille Stelly for giving the invocation.
Activities this week include Come Lord Jesus group, manicures, in-room visits, group exercise, pokeno, bingo sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, Olympic games, mass and root beer float party.
The staff of Heritage Manor sends get-well wishes to our loved ones in the hospital Theresa Fontenot and Bobbie McCauley.
The staff of Heritage Manor wishes a Happy Birthday this week to Mezzit Robert.
The staff of Heritage Manor extends its deepest sympathy to the family of Ruby Duos. She will be dearly missed by all of us.