On Wednesday, June 17, Southern Maine Agency on Aging welcomed more than 500 reasons to celebrate.
At our Volunteer Appreciation Event, the Gratitude Garden Party, volunteers from across York and Cumberland counties gathered for an afternoon of recognition and connection. It was an opportunity to celebrate the collective impact of more than 500 individuals who power Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s mission every day.
Southern Maine Agency on Aging volunteers contribute more than 20,000 hours of service each year, helping older adults remain safe, supported, and connected in the homes and communities they love. From Meals on Wheels drivers delivering nutritious meals and wellness checks, to Phone Pals providing companionship, to Medicare counselors helping older adults navigate complex systems, volunteers are the driving force behind services that make aging in place possible for thousands of older adults throughout southern Maine.
Many of Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s volunteers are retired professionals, accomplished business and community leaders, and lifelong advocates who choose to invest their time and talents in supporting their neighbors. Time and again, they tell us they receive as much from volunteering as they give. It is a testament to the meaningful relationships and sense of purpose that emerge through service.
The Gratitude Garden Party provided a rare opportunity for volunteers from many different programs to come together, celebrate their accomplishments, and connect with one another. While they serve throughout the region in different roles, they share a common commitment to helping older adults live with dignity and independence.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s annual volunteer awards, recognizing individuals whose dedication and compassion exemplify the organization’s mission and values.
2026 Volunteer Award Recipients
Innovation Award
Ernie Kahane, Medicare Counseling
Client-Centered Award
Jason Seifert, Phone Pals, Meals on Wheels, and Respite Care Companion
Community-Centered Award
Marc Boissonneault, Adult Day Program and Volunteer Ambassador
Belonging Award
Lesley Armstrong, Adult Day Program
Team-Oriented Award
Jack Newton, Meals on Wheels
We were honored to have Kyle Barrett of Kennebunk Savings Bank and Noël Bonam of AARP Maine join us in recognizing the incredible contributions of our volunteers.
The afternoon also included some friendly competition. Volunteers put their teamwork and quick thinking to the test during a spirited game of Family Feud and enjoyed the opportunity to relax, laugh, and connect with fellow volunteers. Thanks to Adult Day Program members, who thoughtfully assembled the prize flower pots, the event was filled with personal touches that reflected the spirit of gratitude at the heart of the celebration.
The Gratitude Garden Party would not have been possible without the support of our generous sponsors. Their partnership helped Southern Maine Agency on Aging recognize and celebrate the more than 500 volunteers who strengthen communities and improve the lives of older adults throughout southern Maine. By investing in volunteer recognition, our sponsors demonstrated their commitment to healthy aging, community connection, and the neighbors we serve together.
Events like the Gratitude Garden Party remind us that while volunteers may serve in different roles and communities, they are united by a shared purpose. Together, our volunteers and community partners make a lasting difference in the lives of older adults across southern Maine.
To every Southern Maine Agency on Aging volunteer and sponsor, thank you. Your commitment and generosity make this work possible.
