On October 21st, BlueCross BlueShield of Central New York (BCBSCNY) hosted a check presentation ceremony at which nine area agencies/programs reaped the benefits of the financial reward the company recently received when it was bestowed with the Brand Excellence Award from the BlueCross BlueShield Association. This honor is given to the top Blues Plan across the country based on customer and decision-maker ratings, loyalty ratings of current customers, marketing success and outstanding service and financial performance.
Employees of BCBSCNY presented the local organizations/programs with checks for $1,000 for their outstanding service to our community. The agencies were nominated and selected by employees of BCBSCNY. Meals on Wheels of Syracuse received a $1,000 check from Brenda Reeves, Finance Department, BCBSCNY. "I selected Meals on Wheels because this wonderful organization provides a nourishing meal to those who would go without otherwise," said Brenda Reeves. 'For all seniors and shut-ins they serve, this is sometimes the only real meal they eat. I nominated Meals on Wheels on behalf of my grandmother, Helen Lewis, who delivered meals until she was 88 years old!" "We are thrilled BCBSCNY is thinking of Meals on Wheels," said Mason Kaufman, Executive Director. We are grateful for the support of community-minded business. This is one of the ways the program is able to feed people in need.
Kimberley Loson is the new Director of Community Relations. She previously served as the Director of Development for the American Diabetes Association. She enjoys working with a supportive staff and Board of Directors.
Linda Brabham is the Senior Volunteer Coordinator. She was previously the Volunteer Coordinator of the Southern Tier Hospice when her family resided in Elmira, NY. She feels it a privilege to work with dedicated volunteers and enjoys the feeling of fulfillment in sending out the meals each day.
Carrie DeBord recently joined the Meals on Wheels staff as a Social Worker. She recently moved to Syracuse from Deltona, Florida where she worked for a non-profit agency, "Our" Children First as a Children's Targeted Case Manager.
Florestine Shaw has been with Meals on Wheels for nearly two years as a volunteer and recently became our new Site Coordinator on October 1st. She is responsible for making sure our routes run smoothly from our James Street/Church Street location. She loves meeting all the great volunteers which brighten up her day.
Dennis Sanford became our new part-time Transporter. Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, he then moved to New York City. He resided there for 13 years before coming to Syracuse in October of 1998. He feels it a blessing and privilege to be part f the caring staff at Meals on Wheels.