Dom Brightens The Day!
“I am a happy person to be with them” says Domenic Scorziello, ” it makes me feel good, like I am accomplishing something.” Volunteering with St. Joseph’s Health Centre began 19 years ago when Domenic volunteered to assist with gardening, a leisure interest that provides enjoyment to this day.
When St. Joseph’s Health Centre (formerly St, Joseph’s Hospital) was renovated, Domenic moved to social activity volunteer roles and later began calling the weekly Bingo. “Dom is a very kind and consistent volunteer who has assisted with the weekday Bingo game for many years” says Donna Marion, Volunteer Services Team at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, “Dom is often here early to help with set up and to see it goes smoothly; he is often seen visiting with residents before or after his volunteer shift to help brighten their day.”
“I enjoy socializing so all positions at St. Joseph’s over the last 19 years have been very enjoyable” shares Dom, “I like going and being part of the activities and I get great pleasure seeing people happy to participate in the activities and forget what challenges they are facing; just to be there with the residents is the highlight.”
On behalf of the St. Joseph’s Health Centre team, Donna shares, “flexible and understanding, Dom is able to adapt to change and always looks on the positive side of a situation. His amicable attitude is much appreciated by staff and other volunteers and residents.”
Domenic believes in the value of volunteering, in getting involved and contributing to his community. In addition to his active role with St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Domenic volunteers as a weekly Church Usher, as a BBQ cook with the Guelph and District Multicultural Festival and with The Elliott supporting weekly physical activities and as a social club convenor.
“Volunteering keeps me healthy mentally and physically” says Domenic, “I like to be active and busy.” Domenic’s feeling echoes a Volunteer Canada research report ‘Volunteering and Older Adults’ (volunteer.ca). The report states ‘Volunteering encourages healthy aging. It is a great way to stay active and engaged. The incredible cognitive, physical, psychological or emotional and social benefits of volunteering are compelling reasons to volunteer or maintain volunteer involvement.
June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario; a time to celebrate the wisdom, experience and contributions of older adults in our communities. Our community is richer as a result of Domenic’s volunteer support; by his gift of time, authentic and genuine caring. Thank you Domenic!
To learn more about volunteer opportunities with St. Joseph’s Health Centre, visit sjhcg.ca
