Senior Services’ 2021 Gala a Virtual Success
More than 100 Senior Services of Alexandria’s (SSA) supporters, donors, volunteers, and city officials logged on to Zoom to participate in the 2021 Annual Gala.
Alexandria, VA – More than 100 Senior Services of Alexandria’s (SSA) supporters, donors, volunteers, and city officials logged on to Zoom to participate in the 2021 Annual Gala. The festive evening celebrated four outstanding members of the Alexandria community and SSA’s work during this challenging period of COVID-19.
Many moving parts made this evening a success, including SSA Board members and staff delivering over 250 meals to the generous Gala sponsors before the virtual event. SSA has been delivering 2,500 meals a week for over a year, so this was no problem for our “Meals on Wheels” team. A big shout out to the Westin Alexandria Old Town for preparing the delicious entrees and partnering with SSA to make the evening a success!
Highlights of the evening included videos and tributes to four outstanding community members who have supported older adults through their careers and volunteer efforts. They are Barbara Anderson, Esq., William “Bill” Euille, Eugene “Bill” Steuerle, and Kate Garvey.
Maribeth Bersani, SSA’s Board Chair, welcomed attendees, and Vice Board Chair Kerry Donley oversaw Trivia and Best-Dressed Award contests. Fun was had by all!
Board member Arvette Reid drew the winning raffle ticket for a fabulous dinner party for 8, donated by Vanessa and Warner Moore, owners of Unwined and Revel. The virtual Silent Auction was a success as well, and thank you to all who donated to make this happen. The evening ended with a virtual dance party—a favorite ending to past Gala events!
SSA is grateful to be part of a community that cares for Alexandria’s older adults. We thank you all for your continued support.
SSA’s Friendly Visitor Program
Make a difference for an isolated older adult
By Tanya Edwards, Friendly Visitor Program Manager
Senior Services of Alexandria’s Friendly Visitor Program is looking for older adult volunteers for its Friendly Visitor Program. This program, an outgrowth of Meals on Wheels, provides isolated older adults with social interaction. We’ve had to go virtual during the pandemic, with volunteers making weekly phone calls and mailing notes to stay in touch with their seniors. It has been a lifeline for many seniors who reside in assisted living facilities and even in their own homes. SSA plans to expand the program because we know many more older adults live alone and face social isolation. If you see a neighbor or friend who could use a friendly visit, please contact me by email at [email protected].
