The Debbie-Rand Memorial Service League celebrated its 62nd Anniversary this month with a “Shining Star” Anniversary luncheon held at the Boca West Country Club. The League is the volunteer affiliate of the Boca Raton Regional Hospital and is the organization which, 62 years ago, helped create this Hospital. At that time, Gloria Drummond, a Boca resident, and a few neighbors realized the need for a hospital in Boca Raton. They began raising funds to build what is now known as the Boca Raton Regional Hospital.
The Anniversary Lunch was attended by over 150 volunteers, medical staff and Hospital administrators. Ana Maria Restrepo, President of the Debbie-Rand volunteer organization, presented the administration with a check for $300,000, money raised by the volunteer’s Thrift Shop, gift shop and donations. During the past 62 years the volunteers have given over $35 million dollars to the hospital. Lincoln Mendez, CEO of the Boca Raton Regional Hospital, gratefully accepted the check and thanked the volunteers for their million plus hours of service to the patients and staff.
Howard Cohen
As part of the ceremony volunteers were awarded pins for their services. The pins were distributed to over 100 people who had given at least 100 hours of service to those with over 14,000 volunteer hours. They included Boca Pointe residents Eileen Carlins, Helene and Howard Cohen, and Renee Markowitz. Boca Pointe and Edgewater residents perform invaluable volunteer services at over one hundred community and national organizations. Often their work is taken for granted. We are thankful for the wonderful services performed by these people and express our gratitude to those who make our community a better place to live. These volunteers bring an unparalleled commitment and passion to helping others. In today’s fast paced world, it is easy to underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word or the smallest act of caring. This month we thank all the volunteers in our community. Your service and efforts are greatly appreciated. Helen Keller once observed that “I am only one, I cannot do everything. But I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
You are invited to visit The Debbie-Rand Thrift Shop for an unusual shopping experience which includes a special boutique section. Be aware that the Thrift Shop accepts donations of all kinds and will pick up furniture and other items on request. (Thrift Shop – 561-395-2208). If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information, please call 561-955-4098.
