Teens Contribute More than 1,400 Hours of Summer Service at Holy Angels
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This summer, 50 exceptional teenage volunteers chose to give something valuable to the residents of Holy Angels: their time.
Over eight weeks, our Volunteens dedicated 1,455 hours of service, helping make the summer meaningful and fun for the residents who call Holy Angels home. Volunteens came from public and private middle schools and high schools, as well as homeschool programs throughout Gaston and Mecklenburg counties, bringing their energy, kindness and creativity to our campus and businesses.
Throughout the summer, they sang their hearts out at karaoke, created arts and crafts that now decorate our homes, completed countless puzzles, and shared conversations and laughter as they build friendships with our residents. Their time made a difference, as Chief Operating Officer Donnie Thurman shared with the group at their end-of-summer celebration. “Every game you played, every conversation you had, every wheelchair you pushed and every smile you shared mattered more than you probably realized,” Thurman told the Volunteens. “The world will always need people who are willing to give of themselves, and after watching you this summer, I know that future is in good hands.”
As the eight-week program came to a close, Holy Angels staff nominated Volunteens who demonstrated significant growth, initiative, and enthusiasm throughout the summer. While every Volunteen contributed something special, eight program participants received recognition as “Summer Stars” for the ways they grew and served.
Gracie Canipe, a first-year Volunteen, jumped into the program with a positive attitude and a willingness to help wherever she was needed. Whether spending time with residents or assisting teammates, she brought enthusiasm to each day. Staff shared, “She was wonderful! Included all the residents in everything and always has a positive attitude. I enjoyed having her in the home.”
Patience Jones, also a first-year Volunteen, grew in confidence as she developed friendships with residents throughout the summer. Multiple teammates recognized the way she came out of her shell and connected with those around her. The staff said, “She came out of her shell and is just the sweetest! She interacted so well with all the residents.”
Xander Ryan was first introduced to Holy Angels through his siblings and has continued to make an impact through the Volunteen program. After logging the most Volunteen hours last summer, Xander returned this year to serve at Cotton Candy Factory. His strong work ethic and willingness to step in wherever needed stood out to teammates. Staff nominating him shared, “Xander was the hardest worker I have ever seen. He was so respectful, friendly and helpful! We really enjoyed having him work with us!”
Paul Sayegh, another first-year Volunteen, formed special friendships with residents in Belhaven. He made a point of including everyone in activities and ensuring each resident had an opportunity to participate. Staff said, “He is super sweet and talks to all of the residents. He makes sure that everyone has the chance to play the games they choose.”
Kylie Joe VanGastle, a fourth-year Volunteen, spent her summer volunteering at Cherubs Café. Several teammates nominated her, noting the kindness, dedication and positive attitude she brought each day. The staff added, “She made sure all the residents felt included and brought nothing but smiles and laughter with her.”
Caroline Pritchett, a first-year Volunteen, quickly made a positive impression on our residents and staff. Her energy, kindness, and confidence helped her build so many meaningful connections with our residents throughout the summer. Staff shared, “She came with so much energy, was super kind, and wasn’t scared to be herself in front of residents or staff.”
Nishka Shah, another first-year Volunteen, first learned about Holy Angels when her school’s Beta Club visited for a service project, and we’re so grateful she chose to return this summer. Her creativity and enthusiasm shined in every home she visited, as she regularly led arts and crafts activities and made a point to engage with each resident. One staff member shared, “She is a superstar. It came so naturally to her. The residents loved her, and she jumped right in.”
Grace Kucera, a fourth-year Volunteen, spent her summer at Spruced Goose Station. She is a shining star because of her dedication, positive attitude, and willingness to help wherever needed. A staff member shared, “Exceptional – always willing to help! Great interactions with crew and ‘can-do’ attitude. She is very humble, demonstrates strong leadership qualities, and staff and crew members love her.”
Holy Angels also recognized Alex Munnell for giving the most hours of service during this year’s program. Of the 40 days Volunteens were on campus, Alex was here for 31 of them, contributing an incredible 94 hours of his summer to Holy Angels.
To all 50 of our Volunteens: thank you. Thank you for the hours you gave, for the friendships you formed and for every craft, song, conversation and smile you shared. Your presence helped make this summer special for our residents, their families and our Holy Angels
Interested in becoming a Volunteen or finding another way to volunteer with Holy Angels? Learn more at www.holyangelsnc.org/volunteer.
