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OHCA Teen Volunteer Year wins AHCA 2010 Honor |
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OHCA Teen Volunteer
Year wins AHCA 2010 Honor
Michelle H ouse, OHCA’s 2010
Teen Volunteer of the Year, has been named AHCA’s Young Adult Volunteer of
the Year. House volunteers at Hennis Care Centre in Dover, Ohio, and was
recognized at the Association’s Annual Convention in May. Residents at Hennis
Care Centre all know Michelle House and often ask for her by name. Social
activities is not this volunteer’s only skill -- she paints furniture; cares
for the facility’s therapy dog, Hans; she was a “Neighborhood Kid”; and even
advocated on senior issues at the state capitol. Owner David Hennis’ top
reflection on why Michelle is such an important volunteer is that “She has a
keen ability to listen to the elder with utmost patience. Her strong human
relation skills enable her to work not only with residents but family and staff
as well.” Administrator Anita Peffer tells us that Michelle started visiting
the facility as a Neighborhood Kid and now “Michelle mentors other young people
to serve in the facility.” Nothing is too big or too obscure for Michelle to
agree to with an enthusiastic “Yes!” Outside of the facility, She is a merit
student, plays violin in her school orchestra, sings in the school’s choir,
painted downtown storefront windows with the art club and dances in a club
where she studies tap, jazz and ballet. House is also a Silver Star Girl Scout
working on her Gold Star. Michelle House is certainly a well-rounded volunteer.
Says resident Horace Page, “Michelle’s smile and talents have helped so many
lonely people through some rough days.” House will be honored during a special
ceremony during the AHCA Annual Convention in Long Beach, California.
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