Carolyn Hohne, Githens Center’s Volunteer of the Year

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At its Annual meeting last Fall, Githens Center named Carolyn Hohne its Volunteer of the Year.  Carolyn began her relationship with Githens Center in the year 2000 as a participant in the Bike-A-Thon.  She saw a banner advertising the event and signed up with no prior knowledge of  Githens Center.  Her love of cycling motivated her to participate.

 

As she learned about the programs and services for children and adults with disabilities provided by Githens Center, she realized that if her son Derek, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, had lived past five months of age, he would have benefited from these services.  As a

way to keep Derek’s memory alive and in the hearts of all who knew him, she has dedicated her time as the Chairperson of the Bike/Walk-A-Thon Committee for the past seven years.   One of her main goals is to consistently increase participation every year.  Carolyn states that the bike route is one of the most enjoyable she has ever completed and feels more people should experience it.   She conducts a personal e-mail campaign, notifies other cycling enthusiasts, and encourages her fellow committee members to canvass far and wide for the cause.

 

Carolyn believes that everyone vested in Githens Center should do whatever they are comfortable doing to create an

awareness  of both the challenges and triumphs of individuals with disabilities and their families.  Major events like the Bike/Walk-A-Thon provide an exceptional opportunity to do both.  Derek’s memory will always be alive through his mothers’ work for Githens Center.

Our Leadership

Message from the Executive Director

In 2008 we will re-commit ourselves to high quality, unique programming and increased donor support.  We plan to expand the physical facility as well as the educational, adult day, after-school, and other family support services.  We will continue programming for students with severe multiple disabilities and chronic medical conditions and develop innovative partnerships with other schools and programs.  The purchase of a new vehicle with funding from Division of Developmental Disabilities will enable us to provide more cost-effective transportation for our consumers.  Expansion of services will include an inclusive preschool class, a companion program, and overnight respite. All of these enhancements add value to the agency and its ability to serve children and adults with disabilities and their family members.  Githens Center’s small, nurturing environment allows us to provide the personal, individualized attention that the agency-based program participants and the in-home services consumers need.   We accomplish this goal through the dedication and commitment of  a highly qualified staff.

 

Githens Center supporters have raised money through our two fundraising efforts, the Bike and Walk-A-Thon and the Golf Classic,  two major fundraisers over the past nineteen years.  Our first annual Holiday-Card Campaign in 2007 surpassed our expectations.  We raised over $8,000 through personal contacts of board members, parents and staff.  We expect to increase our donor base for this year’s campaign.

 

Thank you for your support and we look forward to a great 2008!!

 

—Kate G. York