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Andy
Anderson, resident of Watertown Convalarium,
enjoyed a game at the Home-to-Home
Foundation’s Bowl-a-Thon. |
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The Home-to-Home Foundation's Bowl-a-Thon late last
year raised a record $20,000 to help the organization
continue to bring inspiring programs to area nursing
home residents, and Watertown played a starring role
in its success.
The event, held November 13 at Thomaston Lanes, saw
more than 300 bowlers take the lanes along side
residents from Watertown Convalarium, many of whom
hadn't been able to bowl in a very long time.
"I had such a great time at this event,"
said Andy Anderson, formerly of Woodbury. "I even
bowled well because of those great ramps you had for
people in wheelchairs."
Mr. Anderson and the Home-to-Home Foundation
enjoyed the most successful bowl-a-thon in the
foundation's history thanks to the involvement of
groups and civic leaders from throughout Watertown.
State Rep. Sean Williams (R-68) and Town Manager
Meredith Robson cheered on the residents and
congratulated the volunteers and donors.
"In just a few short years, the Home-to-Home
Foundation has become one of the only organizations in
the nation that provide outstanding programs,
activities and events year-round for nursing home
residents," Rep. Williams said. "By pairing
community members with residents, Home-to-Home creates
a meaningful social experience that residents treasure
and look forward to experiencing every month."
"Both Watertown Convalarium and Waterbury
Extended Care participate in Home-to-Home's
programs," said Ms. Robson. "Each month, the
foundation brings joy and purpose to the residents of
these homes, and we're grateful for its work to enrich
their lives."
Peer Advocates from Swift Middle School, along with
members of the Watertown Junior Women's Club and First
Congregational Church's Pilgrim Fellowship were also
on hand to help make the fundraiser a success.
"Without these groups, and the many donors and
volunteers who came out to support us, we'd never have
exceeded this goal," said Dr. Richard Silverman,
Waterbury pulmonologist and founder and president of
the Home-to-Home Foundation. "We're indebted to
Watertown's leaders and volunteers for helping us
enrich the lives of nursing home residents in this
area and throughout greater Waterbury.
"The Bowl-a-Thon not only provides us with a
major source of funding for the year, it's an
opportunity to showcase our mission," Dr.
Silverman continued. "We offer engaging and
interactive programs that reunite residents with their
communities. From helping elementary students learn to
read, to providing oral histories for high school
students, to just enjoying a favorite past-time,
residents discover a new sense of purpose through our
programs."
Volunteers and donors may call the foundation at
203-757-5449, or visit www.hometohomefoundation.org.
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