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At Cabrillo EDC, we are fortunate to have Joanne as a resident at Camino Esperanza Apartments, for seniors, in Simi Valley. A fantastic volunteer, she exemplifies the spirit of selflessness and compassion. Joanne’s commitment to serving others goes beyond her own community, as she extends her kindness to children at the Snapdragon Place Apartments I and actively contributes to various community events and initiatives. Her unwavering dedication and generosity have made her an invaluable asset to her fellow residents and the larger community.

Joanne’s love for volunteering stems from her upbringing, influenced by her mother’s teachings about helping others. Even after working in the aerospace industry for 47 years, Joanne’s passion for lending a hand remained steadfast. When she faced a layoff in 2010, she embarked on a journey to find new employment but instead discovered a deeper calling to serve her community.

One of Joanne’s primary volunteer roles is supporting her neighbors at Camino Esperanza. She selflessly devotes her time to those who face challenges due to isolation and lack of support. Joanne’s caring nature shines through in the thoughtful gestures she makes, such as creating goodie bags for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Memorial Day, Joanne insists on providing these treats to brighten the lives of the children at Snapdragon Place Apartments I. She understands the joy and fulfillment of spoiling these kids, especially since her grandchildren live out of state.

Furthermore, Joanne’s empathy extends beyond simple gifts. She goes above and beyond to address the unique needs of the children she supports. When she discovered that one child lacked a DVD player, she promptly donated one, ensuring the child could enjoy movies just like the others. These small acts of kindness demonstrate Joanne’s ability to identify and alleviate challenges faced by those she serves.

Joanne also extends her support to Cabrillo EDC’s weekly Food Share program. Joanne is always assisting with organizing the distribution of food and helping with other community initiatives. Joanne consistently displays her eagerness to lend a helping hand. Her reliability and trustworthiness make her the go-to person to care for pets when neighbors are away.

For Joanne, volunteering is more than just an activity to fill her time; it is a source of joy and purpose. She finds fulfillment in interacting with the residents, engaging in activities like puzzles and painting, and organizing social events such as coffee club gatherings. Joanne’s commitment to fostering connections within the community highlights her belief in the power of social interaction and the positive impact it can have on individuals’ well-being.

Since moving to Camino Esperanza in April 2017, Joanne has become an integral part of our community. Her caring nature, dedication, and genuine love for helping others have made her a beloved figure among residents and staff. The trust placed in her by neighbors and friends is a testament to her character and her impact on their lives.

We are incredibly grateful for Joanne’s contributions to Cabrillo EDC and the community. Her selflessness, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment inspire us all to be better and to strive for a more compassionate world. Joanne embodies the spirit of volunteerism, and we are honored to have her on our team.