Volunteers are the heart of what we do at CHEER. At our annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner in April, we selected the 2025 CHEER Volunteer of the Year. We recognized Richard (Dick) Durbano, as well as each of the nominees selected by each of our Center Directors. From now through the end of the year, we will introduce each of these special individuals and highlight how their generous gift of time makes a difference every day!
This month, we salute Kathy Crowley from CHEER’s Harbour Lights Senior Activity Center in Lewes.
- How does it feel to be chosen as a Volunteer of the Year for your CHEER center?
I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. Being chosen as Volunteer of the Year is something I never expected and it means more to me than I can put into words. Volunteering has always been about giving from the heart, not for recognition, so to be honored like this is incredibly touching.
- Tell us about your background. How did you spend your time before you retired and became a volunteer?
I had the privilege of working as a cafeteria manager at three different schools, two elementary schools, and one high school. My time there was meaningful; the staff and students felt like a second family to me. I’m also a proud parent of four wonderful children, Kathy, Teresa, Pat, and Bobby—and a grandparent to two amazing grandchildren. Spending time with my family brings me great joy.
- Do you have any hobbies, interests, favorite teams or destinations?
Before I began to lose my vision, I loved baking, especially brownies and carrot cake. It brought me so much joy to share those treats with family and friends.
- How many years have you been coming to the center?
I’ve been a proud member of the CHEER Center for the past 23 years.
- How many years have you been a CHEER volunteer?
I’ve had the honor of volunteering at the CHEER Center for the past 23 years and it’s been one of the most rewarding parts of my life.
- How has volunteering with CHEER impacted you personally?
CHEER has had a meaningful impact on my life. It’s given me the opportunity to help others, which brings me a deep sense of joy and purpose. It’s truly a wonderful place to be, the people are kind and welcoming, and the lunches are delicious!
- What initially drew you to volunteer with CHEER?
What drew me to volunteer with CHEER was the chance to stay active and involved while spending time at the center. I was happy to step up and help in the kitchen. It felt good to know that my support made a difference to the hardworking kitchen staff.
- What advice do you have for current and future CHEER volunteers?
My advice to current and future volunteers is to give from the heart and be present in every moment. Even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day. Stay open, stay compassionate, and remember that the joy you give often comes back to you in the most unexpected and beautiful ways.
- Tell us about a time you knew your volunteer efforts helped others that you’ll never forget. One moment that has always stayed with me is when a kitchen manager pulled me to the side and thanked me for always helping her. She told me that my help in the kitchen made her work load a lot easier. It reminded me that sometimes just showing up and being there for others can have a lasting impact.
Everyone at CHEER appreciates the contributions of our volunteers; without them, so much of what we do for seniors across our county would not be possible. Please join us in recognizing Kathy Crowley from CHEER’s Harbour Lights Senior Activity Center!
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