Welcome to Skagit County

Date: June 21, 2002

RSVP HONORS SENIOR VOLUNTEERS

On Thursday, June 20, the Skagit Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) thanked and honored senior volunteers from all across Skagit County at the 28th Annual RSVP Recognition Luncheon. The event celebrated RSVP volunteers as an example of the Spirit of America.

Two volunteers received awards for twenty years of continuous service with RSVP.
Dorothy Corne of Bayview, who started with RSVP in Whatcom County moved here in 1992 and continued serving at both the Anacortes and Sedro Woolley Senior Centers. A passionate quilter, she has produced many quilts for fundraisers and for those in need.

Stan Sygitowicz, of Sedro Woolley, is a man who can't say "no" and doesn't want to. Since joining RSVP 20 years ago he has been a driving force behind the success of many local non-profits, including the Skagit Council on Aging, Job Corps, United Way, the Sedro Woolley Library, Sedro Woolley Housing Authority, Helping Hands Food Bank, and the RSVP Advisory Board.

Twenty-five lucky volunteers won door prizes donated by local businesses and individuals. Saving the best for last, the grand prize went to Ilene Zucker of Mount Vernon who joined RSVP just this year. Ilene creates beautiful gift items for sale in the Skagit Valley Hospital Gift Shop.

Sixty-seven dedicated volunteers were honored for serving over 500 hours last year, including Doris Allen of Sedro Woolley, and Joanne Buttle of Camano Island who each reported over 2000 hours (the equivalent of a full-time job!)

"We are very proud of our senior volunteers and their dedication to service. They touch the lives of so many people," explains RSVP Director, Donna Sitts. "And with the help of dozens of generous sponsors, this is a way for the whole community to say THANK YOU!"