Katrina Schwanke

Tuesday, 06 September 2011 19:00

Each week, Katrina Schwanke brightens the lives of many people in her community. Katrina takes pride in her volunteer work and finds joy in helping others. By sharing her time and her caring spirit, she has touched the lives of those at St. Camillus, St. Joseph's Hospital, Holy Family and Nun Better.

Katrina's volunteer work at St. Camillus includes helping at the Day Health Center, where she serves water to participants after they exercise. She also sets the tables for lunch and provides transport to Mass. One of her favorite ways to spread cheer to residents is by bringing Gidget, a pet therapy dog, to visit. Katrina loves chatting with the residents, she knows many of them by name and they look forward to seeing her bright smile each week.

At St. Joseph's Hospital, Katrina helps to keep employee morale high by collecting nomination forms for the Star Program. Holy Family Church appreciates Katrina's help with office tasks, such as shredding. At NunBetter, a local chocolate and custom gift basket shop run by the Sisters of the Third Franciscan Order, Katrina has a special friendship with Sister Patrice and Sister Jane. She enjoys helping the Sisters to prepare ribbon, package candy and straighten the store.

Using her Self-Determination plan, Katrina and her family have been able to choose how she uses her supports and services to build a meaningful life in her community. They have chosen Katrina's Mentors and built her weekly schedule based on the supports that she needs to pursue her own goals and dreams. Her Advocates Mentor helps Katrina to explore her community and make new connections with her co-workers at her volunteer sites.

Katrina and her family have chosen to use her Self-Determination services to make a difference in the lives of others.