Ms. Betty Van Sweringen has volunteered at the Hayward Area Senior Center for over three years. In this relatively short period of time, she has made a big impact. Some of Betty’s regular volunteer work includes office receptionist work and assisting with the lunch program. She works regularly at least 2 days a week and performs duties such as greet participants, answer phones, make appointments, make lunch reservations, check in seniors prior to lunch, monitor lunch donations and support staff in the office. In addition to these regular duties, Betty always lends a helping hand when additional help is needed, such as filling in for another volunteer who can’t make their regular shift and always helping with special events.
Another important contribution Betty made was to sit on the Hayward Area Senior Center Renovation Committee. Bond Staff, Architects, Senior Program Staff and some key volunteers met together several times in the past year to discuss the remodel and renovation plans of the Hayward Senior Center. Betty is a detailed oriented person and always gave important and insightful input and contributions to the meetings. The groups input is essential to make the Hayward Area Senior Center a wonderful and functional facility after renovation for many seniors and for many years ahead.
After seeing Betty’s contribution to the Hayward Senior Center renovation committee and her commitment to the community, staff recommended that Betty apply to H.A.R.D.’s Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC). Betty has nearly completed her 2-year term. She has regularly participated and been an advocate for seniors and the community at large during her time on the CAC.
Ms. Betty Van Sweringen has been a wonderful volunteer, who gives her time generously, she is detail oriented, dependable and an overall great asset to the Hayward Area Recreation & Park District and our community. She is very deserving to receive the Board of Directors Volunteer of the Month Award.