Des Plaines Resident Receives Volunteer Award

Lynda Santrella of Des Plaines is the kind of volunteer that every organization would love to have. She works hard, is dedicated and is full of spirit and passion.

On June 19,  Age Options at its Annual Luncheon and Volunteer Recognition reception recognized Lynda as a special person she is. Maine Township nominated Lynda who has been a volunteer coordinator for over 34 years with the Niles- Park Ridge Crop Hunger Walk held annually. The township's food pantry and other pantry operations in the area benefit from the funds raised by the Walk.

But Lynda does more. She is a hospice volunteer through Seasons Hospice of Des Plaines.  She has also assisted seniors with financial issues weekly through her parish Our Lady of Ransom in Niles. In addition, she is the leader of a contemporary choir called New Spirit Choir.  Lynda enjoys playing the guitar and participating in the choir.

Age Options (The Area Agency on Aging of Suburban Cook County since 1974) also celebrated its 40th birthday last week.   Its CEO, Jonathan Lavin,  said that this agency will continue to champion the cause of suburban aging and disability and meeting the needs of our growing and changing populations.  The mission of Age Options continues to improve the quality of life and maintain the dignity of the older persons through leadership and support, community partnerships, comprehensive services, accurate information and powerful advocacy.

For more information on the Maine Township food pantry, call 847-297-2510 or visit www.mainetownship.com.