Woodstock
“I was just very taken by the beauty of the people and the dedication of the staff,” Racicot said about her desire to get involved with the nonprofit organization that serves people with special needs.
Her contribution as one of the 12 people who volunteer weekly was quickly appreciated.
“She’s just here all day long helping with participants whether it be yoga, an art class or singing,” said Dail Frates, Zack’s Place executive director. The organization has more than 400 volunteers.
Racicot’s volunteerism was recognized last week when she received the Woodstock Terrace Assisted Living Facility’s annual Senior Service Award. It is the fourth year the award has been presented, said Eric Fritz, executive director of Woodstock Terrace.
“It’s just something we like to do to appreciate other volunteers in the community,” Fritz said. Every year, he asks area nonprofit directors to nominate volunteers they regard as “extra special.”
Frates nominated Racicot, and it is the first time a Zack’s Place volunteer has received the award.
“She’s just such a great big help,” Frates said. “Whatever we need, she’s willing to do.”
Racicot, who is retired, is at Zack’s Place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. every Wednesday. She said she was surprised, humbled and honored to receive the award.
“You always receive more than you give when you volunteer,” she said. “(They) teach me a lot about just being in the present in the moment, not worrying about the past or being anxious about the future. … That was a great lesson for me to learn.”
“Every day is a special day at Zack’s Place.”
Editor’s note: For more information about volunteering at Zack’s Place, visit http://www.zacksplacevt.org/volunteers.php or call 802-457-5868. Liz Sauchelli can be reached at esauchelli@vnews.com or 603-727-3221.
