The Outstanding Volunteer Award was developed by Dr Shawn McGivney, our President and Founder, who was working in the emergency room on a busy evening when by chance he saw an older but assertive senior advocating for another frail senior who needed attention. He went over and offered a hand. In this case the relief one gets from a bed pan may not be medical but it is none the less essential. The more mature advocate turned out to be a spry senior center leader, Sister Annunciata Bethel, from the Bedford Park Senior Center. She is an outstanding person coordinating many programs and services for her community and the center. She and Dr. McGivney opined that a companion or advocate in the emergency room is essential. After seeing her on several other occasions, they discussed recognizing outstanding volunteers. They decided to take action. Dr McGivney offered to discuss a donation and plaque with the Ageless Foundation and Sister Annunciate offered to select a nominating committee from her Bedford Park Senior Center. The rest is History. Another way to recognize a great role model for all senior volunteers was created. Stories like these show how each of us can get involved and enjoy giving back to a great community either by donating time, expertise, or funding to great causes.