Demonstrating the impact of the Dale Association on people’s lives, more than 60 members, staff and community leaders gathered on Wednesday to cheer for President and CEO Maureen Wendt during a surprise party for her 25th year of service.
“Maureen is such a huge part of the success of the Dale Association,” said Barb Scirto, chair of the board of directors. “She already has our respect and gratitude. Today we give her smiles.”
The celebration included a proclamation by Mayor John Lombardi III, a song and dance routine by board members, and refreshments, including a decorated cake.
“It takes a lot of time to do what she does,” Scirto said. “This woman puts her soul into the Dale Association.”
Gretchen Doty, the Dale’s senior center director, spoke about how Wendt has been a mentor and an inspiration to staff across the organization.
At the microphone, Wendt’s reaction was succinct. “Wow!”
“I’m not usually at a loss for words, but I am at a loss for words right now.”
Wendt said Doty must have been in charge of diverting her attention because there was a discussion of a lunch celebration next Monday.
“Is it cancelled?” Wendt asked. “I’m blown away. I just see so many people — family, my friends, former employees … I’m not really sure where the 25 years have gone. I just want to thank everyone for being here.”
Prior to becoming president and CEO in 2012, Wendt was director of marketing and development for more than 11 years. Wendt is chairman of the board of directors for Lockport Meals on Wheels; vice president of the board of Western New York Integrated Care Collaborative; treasurer of Niagara Behavioral Health Network.
“Maureen has been a huge advocate for the aging,” said Darlene DiCarlo, director of the Office for the Aging. “She’s a great partner and genuinely cares.”
Scirto said the Dale Association provides an umbrella of human services to support adults of any age. Services include social day programs that include lunches for seniors, the Memory Minders program, vision and hearing programs, Dial-A-Lift van services, home and hospital visits, informal counseling and insurance navigation.
For elders who are homebound or live in more isolated areas, the Dale Association’s Call and Reassure Elders program (CARE) provides connection and compassion across Niagara County. Operated in conjunction with the Niagara County Office for the Aging and the Center of Elder Law and Justice, CARE volunteers make wellness checks by phone on a regularly scheduled basis to seniors who are in need of someone to assure their well-being and have a friendly conversation.
“The Dale does so many things in the community,” said Judy Naylor, volunteer coordinator for Lockport Community Television. Speaking of Wendt, she said, “She’s such a great leader. Her dedication has really made a difference in so many people’s lives.”