October is Community Living Month. The very active local community living population did their part to notify residents that they were very much a part of Princeton. Many of the employees and clients of the local group headed to Coopers Foods with posters, crafts and friendly faces.
“Princeton has a big heart,” said Mary Sol.
“The money we raise goes to the Christmas food hampers,” stated care aid Gloria Gagnon, of the hotdog sale that they were holding in conjunction with their awareness campaign. “This year the theme is “who we are and what we do,” Gagnon added. “Everybody here does something and we are showcasing their talents. Like Nicole...she makes bird houses, Christmas ornaments and dog cookies to sell and Carol recycles bottles for her trips to go out of town.”
The rest of the clients all had a story to tell. Sharon shines shoes at Ridgewood Lodge. Mary volunteers as a hospital auxiliary, helps at the thrift store and works at Vermilion Court. Lynda makes quilts and plays music. Aaron sorts garbage for recycling. Dana is learning to play the accordion and sorts clothes to help out. Diane cleans signs along the KVR trail. Megan swims and plays bocce on the Special Olympics team. Last, but not least is Jessica. Jessica is the artist in the group. She loves art and music and works in a law office part time.
The hotdog sale was a way for the grateful group to say thank you and give back to a community that supports them. “Coopers donated the hotdogs, condiments, pop and barbecue for our fundraiser, so we want to make sure they are thanked. We live in a great place,” stated Gagnon. “Princeton is our home and we love it here.”