Robyn Heaney is the Activity Coordinator at a local retirement home, Marina Point located near North Bay's waterfront. She describes her role by saying "I provide daily activities and plan and execute special events for our residents and tenants. I have been with Marina Point since 2008."
The facility holds around 145 people, and a new addition under construction will add space. That's a lot of people to keep entertained at the best of times, let alone day in and day out. It's that passion that keeps Heaney working hard to give the seniors enjoyable activities they both want and deserve.
One of the things that help achieve that goal is the volunteers who give their time to put smiles on the Marina Point residents' faces.
"My volunteers are all different ages, but all are over 18 years old," she explains.
Heaneysays there are many roles that these people fill. "Volunteers help us out in a variety of ways. I have a volunteer that comes in two Saturdays a month to run the bar for an afternoon social. I also have someone that runs our Remembrance Day ceremony every year. I have pet therapy volunteers. I have someone that runs an Anglican service. I also take students from Canadore College and Nipissing University," she adds.
Heaney believes the volunteers and the seniors both benefit when it comes to well-run activities.
"My volunteers tell me that this is a very positive atmosphere, and the people here are very warm and welcoming. They tell me that they love being here."
Heaney says her job keeps her enjoying a positive outlook as well, adding "what I most enjoy about it is the wonderful people that I have the privilege of creating relationships with and watching them have fun!"
If you think you might like to get involved, there is one specific role Heaney is hoping to fill.
"In the past, I have had a volunteer simply for friendly visiting (and spending time with residents) but I have lost that volunteer and have not been able to replace them," she says.
If you're interested in that role, or any other way of giving your time, it can start with a simple phone call. To reach Heaney simply call (705) 474-9494 and ask for the Activity Coordinator.
This is one of a series of good news articles about "Helpers" in our community. To suggest a person, volunteer, group or an organization contact Mike Anthony at [email protected]
