Foxborough Resident Volunteers at Maples Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

In many ways, Cathy Avery of Foxborough and Phil Champagne of Attleboro are just like any civic-minded individuals eager to make a difference in their community, they volunteer their time and talents. Three days a week, the two visit the Maples Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Wrentham, offering residents throughout the facility reading material from a cart stacked with books and magazines.  The fact that both Avery and Champagne have developmental disabilities has not stopped the staff and residents of the Center from coming to rely on them. 

The two volunteers come to Maples though a community outreach program at Alternatives’ Community Connections in Wrentham, a skills-building day program they both attend.  Avery has been volunteering at the Center for more than six years, while Champagne joined the program four years ago. According to Denise Bain, Team Leader for the Community Connections program, taking part in the book cart program has been a great experience for both Avery and Champagne. “Over the years, some wonderful relationships have developed between Cathy and Phil and some of the residents. The benefit they’ve received both from the social interaction and knowing that they’re performing a valuable service has helped them to grow as individuals,” she explains.

Jen Malachowski, Activities Director for Maples, is also pleased with the collaboration: “The residents appreciate that someone is coming to do something for them. Even if they don’t take a book, the interaction they receive while Cathy and Phil are there is often more important than the books themselves.” Malachowski adds: “I think also when the residents see someone with a disability giving back then they feel like they can give back too. “

As part of Alternatives’ commitment to giving back to the community, the organization encourages and rewards the volunteer efforts of its employees and the individuals it serves.  Upon completion of 100 hours of volunteer work in a year, Alternatives will donate $250 to a non-profit organization of their choice.  Additionally, employees who fulfill the 100 hour commitment earn an additional paid day off and individuals served by the organization receive an $80 gift certificate to their favorite restaurant.