To the editor:
As the Edith Dodge Fund celebrates its 50th birthday this year, we find ourselves in need of two or three good folks to serve on our executive board. Recent loss of members due to relocation, and family responsibilities, has created vacancies. Our need is great and immediate.
We are a nonprofit organization begun by Edith Dodge, herself a senior citizen, in 1973. Over the decades it has evolved from serving seniors and families, to a gifting project for Marblehead residents at home, 80 years and older, who receive cookies and/or clementines (over 900). Former ‘Headers residing in many nearby extended care facilities receive soft fleece blankets, (approximately 145), perfect for naps and laps. Reaching out to the fastest-growing population, we see those numbers fluctuate accordingly each year.
As a volunteer organization we depend on financial donations and the many volunteers who work alongside our board members in preparation for the yearly event. The time commitment is only for bi-monthly evening meetings from September through December. Most important, a commitment of two to three days during the first week of December — delivery week. We are very much a “hands-on” board. It is a few days a year of hard work, plenty of laughter, perhaps even a shenanigan or two.
Our mission in acknowledging these elders, to whom we owe so much, is twofold: to bring a bit of joy heading into the many holidays of winter and to remind them they are remembered and respected.
We can always use teams of two, or families, to deliver around town to the 45 routes, each averaging about 20 homes, plus the extended care homes.
Please call me. Let’s have a chat. We need you. 781-631-1596
Joan Cutler, President
Edith Dodge Memorial Fund Inc.
