The Pawling Resource Center’s Inaugural Heart of Pawling Award

As the PRC’s 50th anniversary year unfolds, the board of directors, along with executive director Michael Alexander, have created the Heart of Pawling Award, to be given annually to a deserving and committed PRC volunteer for exceptional service in support of Pawling’s neighbors in need.  With volunteerism at the very heart of the Center’s ability to serve the community, the Heart of Pawling Award will recognize a PRC volunteer who has consistently donated time, talent or services with heartfelt dedication to the PRC’s mission.  This year, the PRC’s Heart of Pawling Award is being presented to Nastassia Lavion for her 963 hours of volunteer assistance during the past year, showing up almost every day to help.  Her many hours of service have been spent helping food pantry clients, retrieving needed medical equipment from storage on the second floor, and accepting and cleaning incoming equipment that had been loaned to members of the community.  Nastassia also answered phones and helped with general office work.  She is always available to assist wherever needed and is gratified to be able to help people “who don’t have a lot, especially during the holidays.”

Michael Alexander, PRC executive director, expressed gratitude for the many donated hours that those in his corps of volunteers contribute regularly.  “Volunteers like Nastassia Lavion are the heart of the Pawling Resource Center,” he stated.  “Her dedication reflects not just a commitment of time, but a deep belief in our mission and in the neighbors we serve.  We are profoundly grateful for the care, consistency, and compassion she brings to PRC every day.”

The Pawling Resource Center has grown significantly over the years, and so, too, has its army of volunteers who find joy in service.  Last year, 80 volunteers provided more than 4,800 hours supporting the food pantry, answering phones and responding to client needs.  Additionally, 1,526 hours were donated by 48 volunteer drivers in support of the PRC’s transportation program, ferrying clients to medical appointments and grocery shopping and making food deliveries to homebound seniors.  In all, 128 dedicated community volunteers donated 6,393 hours to helping Pawling’s neighbors in need.

PRC board chair, Mario Mejorado, Jr., spoke enthusiastically about the development of this award and the importance of recognizing those who give of their time freely to help others.  He commented, “Established in celebration of the Pawling Resource Center’s 50th anniversary, this honor recognizes one individual each year who truly embodies our core belief: neighbors helping neighbors.  We are proud to launch this award to celebrate those whose compassion, service, and commitment strengthen our community and advance our mission.  May this recognition continue for years to come, honoring those who give from the heart to make Pawling stronger, kinder, and more connected.”