Volunteer Recognition Event
The following was written by GenNext member Jenny Viviano. Thanks, Jenny!
A promise of wine and California rolls brought me to Tani Sushi last Wednesday night for the first ever GenNext volunteer recognition event.
Over 70 GenNext members, fresh from work in their business best, mingled around the sleek black bar and sat chatting in the dining area. A colorful spread was laid out on the sushi bar and I happily filled a plate (thanks to the fellow GenNexter in line who deterred me from taking one of the flaming sushi rolls set on top of the bar – those were apparently just for show!).
I found a seat at a round table and joined a lively discussion about which appetizer was best. My vote was the shrimp dumpling, but the vegetable rolls and chicken skewers also had fans at the table.
After a quick drink refill, I sat back down for a short presentation by GenNext steering committee member Christy Oldani, United Way senior VP Kathy Gardner, and Tim Butler, the executive director of Mary Ryder Home. Christy and Kathy shared information on the great work that GenNext does in the community – over 50 completed service projects and 2,200 volunteer hours donated since 2005.
Tim spoke about how volunteers have a positive effect on the quality of life at Mary Ryder. A couple months ago, I spent a Sunday afternoon painting nails and chatting with the residents at Mary Ryder. Hearing how that time really did make a difference was the highlight of the event for me.
Well, OK, the Sex and the City roll was pretty good too!