The generosity of the Carter Burden Network, Rockefeller University and the mom/son team of Lisa and Andreas Tsatsas blesses Roosevelt Island’s homebound seniors with love, this Valentine’s Day.
Because isolation forced by the pandemic hits seniors so hard, volunteer efforts have greater impact than ever. And although the generosity often goes unnoticed, it’s there, and it’s abundant.
On Thursday, I got a note. My friend, CBN executive Director, Bill Dionne, “thought you and your readers might appreciate this sweet story.”
It was as simple and direct as it was heartwarming.
“A mother and son volunteer team – Lisa, an Occupational Health Nurse and her son, Andreas (pictured above) – are spreading the love this holiday by making beautiful Valentine’s Day cards and gifts for the homebound members of the Roosevelt Island Senior Center.”
Lisa is a registered nurse at Rockefeller University. Her story opens up a larger one of community support with some coming straight across the East River.
Valentines for Roosevelt Island seniors…
“I learned of the Carter Burden Network when I was doing community health surveys with seniors as part of community outreach initiative through my employer,” said Lisa. “The seniors made quite an impression on me and I felt that the pandemic might be hitting them hard.”
CBN director of volunteer services, Jenny Moreno, thought making Valentine’s Day cards for homebound seniors on RI was great for sending holiday cheer.
“Lisa and her son Andreas wanted to give in a creative and special way,” she noted.
Mom agreed.
“Andreas loves to create artwork and help people. And when I told him about the opportunity, he was happy to spread joy their way.”
We can’t thank Patricia Mays, CBN’s director of development and communications, for bringing us this story. Valentine’s Day is all about love, but it doesn’t stop there.
Because it’s a year ’round feature with CBN, Bill Dionne and the volunteers.
Now, with families like Lisa and Andreas Tsatsas, it has the power for staying that way.
By David Stone
Roosevelt Island Daily News
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