By BERNADETTE LAURITZENLos Alamos Retired & Senior Organization
You might think that his name is Ray, but that’s because Dennis Casias and wife Patsy are two rays of sunshine at the Betty Ehart Senior Center.
The volunteer time they put into the center is vast and the truth is, it is their smiling faces that make each day a treat.
Dennis, is the greeter extraordinaire, that is glad to see you whether you are an old friend or a longtime member. He wears a lot of hats around the Betty Ehart Senior Centers, so we may actually NOT be able to tell you all of the wonderful things he does. He’s always there in an instant and makes each and every day great!
Patsy is a kind and quiet personality that meets people where they are, and accepts everyone. She will talk to you when you need a friend and always has a kind word. She makes sure we are all kind to everyone, so we can get to know each other. She’s a sweetie who likes to hug her friends.
They are a dynamic duo that makes life a little better for everyone they touch. If you know either one of them, I am sure you would agree. When I look back on old photos, there they are in the background, seeing to it that things get done. I’m sure that I don’t even know the gravity of all of the work that they get accomplished in a week.
Dennis makes sure that his cadre of volunteers ready the monthly newsletter for both senior centers. Folks of all ages, perhaps a dozen or more will assemble to fold and label about 1,200 in total. The heavenly handouts highlight the many services, programs and activities offered by both locations. As a small not for profit, the newsletters are essential, in the life of our little organization.
He has at least 16 years of service with the LARSO and estimated 1,194 hours, which seems low, but there’s a lot to count for sure. Another thing he’s known for is assisting the lunchroom staff and volunteers, by clearing trays in the dining room, which is a huge help. It allows people to relax and socialize just a few minutes longer.
I consider him a part of our billiards family of players we host here. The group meets on a daily basis to demonstrate skill and comradery. The world just doesn’t seem right without everyone in their place. If you were to ask volunteer guru Sarah Chandler she would say, “It IS actually possible that we couldn’t do it without him.”
If you need to find a volunteer home that suits you, call the Los Alamos Volunteer Associations at 505.662.8923. Chandler’s goal is to find you the place you want to be that suits your need and makes you feel wonderful. You also can learn more at www.losalamosseniorcenter.com.
