National Volunteer Month 2019: Linda Gizienski’s Story

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April is National Volunteer Month, which is a time to celebrate the remarkable ways Concordia volunteers serve our residents, patients and families every day. With the helping hands of our volunteers, many more lives are filled with joy, fellowship and inspiration. Each week for the month of April, we’ll introduce you to a volunteer whose acts of service have touched many lives. This week, Concordia at Cabot volunteer Linda Gizienski shares her story.

Working as an office manager at Jack’s Ford in Saver, Pennsylvania for over 30 years, Linda knew that when retirement came she wanted to find ways to stay active in her community.

“I started volunteering a year ago after my daughter suggested that it was something I should try,” Linda said.

Each Wednesday, Linda volunteers at the Lund Care Center at Concordia at Cabot to distribute menus to residents and help wherever needed.

“I help the residents with crafts and other activities,” she said. “I’ve made hats for the residents to design for the Kentucky Derby before. I’ve also interviewed residents about their lives and put up their pictures to display in the hallways.”

For Easter, Linda distributed Tulips to brighten different areas of the building in preparation for the holiday.

“Knowing that I can help out other people is the best feeling,” she said. “The best part is the fact that I’ve gotten to know some of the residents, and the people who work at Concordia. The relationships I’ve made are wonderful.”

In addition to volunteering, Linda enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, and traveling.

“I’ve been to many different places,” she remarked. “The places that come to mind would be Switzerland, Germany, London, Niagara Falls, Aruba, Hawaii and the Grand Canyon.”

Linda and her daughter also take weekend trips together, the most recent being to Deep Creek, Maryland.

“I enjoy staying busy,” Linda said. “As a volunteer you have to be willing to get out and give up a part of your time. I enjoy going out and helping people when I can.”

For more information about our mission and volunteer opportunities at one of our senior care locations in Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio or Tampa, Florida, visit our Locations Map or call our administrative headquarters at 724-352-1571.

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