Villa Esperanza Services Client Honored at the 50th Annual Older Americans Recognition Day Awards

Sandra Marasco, a Villa Esperanza Services Adult Day Program (ADP) participant, was selected by the Los Angeles County Commission for Older Adults (LACCOA) to receive the Outstanding Community Service Award during the 50th Annual Older Americans Recognition Day Awards. Sandra, nominated by Darryl Goodus, Director of Villa’s ADP for her volunteer efforts while participating in the program, was the only senior with special needs recognized with an award. The awards ceremony took place at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion Music Center Grand Hall and included lunch and photos.

“She has volunteered at many community sites over the past several years and she really enjoys helping others,” shares Goodus.” This opportunity provides Villa’s clients with recognition for their contributions to the community.

Villa’s ADP offers a variety of life enhancing experiences for individuals with developmental disabilities and other disabilities, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The community-based program is designed to help people stay mentally and physically active, reduce isolation, improve their health, and prevent decline of their abilities. The program also provides Licensed Vocational Nurses to help meet the medical needs of participants and offers therapeutic exercises, nutritional snacks and access to occupational and speech therapy consultation.

Villa Esperanza Services is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the care and education of children, adults and seniors with developmental, intellectual and other disabilities. Villa offers nine programs including a school for children up to the age of 22 years; a Speech and Language Center and Occupational Therapy Clinic providing children, adults and seniors with comprehensive therapies; employment services; day programs for adults; and adult residences in Pasadena and Thousand Oaks. To learn more about Villa’s collaborative approach, log on to www.VillaEsperanzaServices.org.