George is at the head of the table directing the work.

VOLUNTEERS’ CORNER

In our Newsletters, we’ve been saluting a chosen volunteer, to acknowledge that person’s service and to express our gratitude for it; hopefully others will be inspired to follow in their footsteps. Immaculata has always depended on committed folks who step forward and gift us with their time and talents.

Mr. George Petitto, a 4th degree Knight of Columbus, has been an active volunteer here at Immaculata since 1978. It could almost be said that “service” is his middle name. He is active as a Eucharistic Minister, Head Usher and Sacristan in his home parish of St. Pius V in Providence, Rhode Island – he also helps-out in 2 other nearby parishes. He volunteers weekly with the Franciscan Bread, Blessing and Sandwich Program for the homeless in the area. Over the years, George has accumulated an amazing 65,000 hours of service at the V.A. Hospital!

Here at Immaculata, George has served on our Advisory Board since 1980. He is a stalwart on the Team of volunteers who prepare our Newsletter for mailing several times each year (a critically important task) and is always willing to help with any other projects whenever he is called upon.

Prior to retirement from the workforce some years ago, he worked for several law firms, most notably Edwards and Angel where he was nicknamed their “Paul Drake.” (Perry Mason fans will immediately understand what his multiple and sensitive duties entailed!) In the course of his career, he had occasion to meet and converse with both Presidents Kennedy and Johnson – so we regularly shake the hand that shook the hand….

For relaxation, our happy bachelor enjoys listening to classical music and show tunes – his feline “Friskie” purrs like a kitten during these songfests! All the while, George’s police scanner keeps him abreast of happenings in the neighborhood – hey, you never know when and where more opportunities for volunteering might arise!

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Over the years, Immaculata has counted on volunteers to assist in carrying-out its mission. In this edition of our Newsletter, we salute yet another of our dedicated volunteers.

Michelina “Mickey” DeSciscio has been a loyal volunteer at Immaculata Retreat House since 1975. She started her volunteer work washing dishes in the kitchen during retreats. She graduated to joining volunteers doing housekeeping – making beds after retreats had ended. Since Immaculata’s recent renovation, she has come back to help in the kitchen and dining room as needed. Now in retirement, Mickey is still pleased to volunteer; she presently attends to washing and preparing all the altar linens used in the Retreat House and Oblate Chapels.

Mickey’s family is originally from Foggia, Italy. She has lived in the Willimantic area since 1954. She is the mother of 4 children and proud grandmother of 10 grandchildren. For 36 years, she worked at General Cable (Brand Rex) and retired from there in May of this year.

Everyone at Immaculata always look forward to having Mickey in the house. Her bubbly personality and engaging smile are always welcome. We look forward to working with her for many years to come. Many thanks, Mickey!