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PACS Volunteer Recognition

PACS could not provide the services and support to the community without the time and effort from many of our wonderful volunteers. Here are some volunteers that we would like to recognize to highlight their tremendous contribution to PACS. 

PACS' Volunteer Honorees

Claire & Tom Bravo

 

Claire and Tom started volunteering at PACS roughly four years ago, shortly after relocating to Pennsylvania from Massachusetts. Volunteering had already been an important part of their lives for nearly a decade back in Massachusetts. Their dedication to volunteering comes from a close friend, someone they’ve known since high school, who first inspired them to give back to their community through providing food assistance. When Claire and Tom moved to Pennsylvania, they wanted to continue giving back, and that’s how they found PACS.

 

Claire and Tom both have their own respective duties here at PACS. Claire helps run the front desk, greeting and assisting guests who visit our Market. Tom takes on a wide range of responsibilities, managing limited resources, stepping in wherever needed. Both he and Claire also serve as representatives at third-party fundraisers to speak about PACS. Fun fact, Tom also plays Santa at Steel City’s ‘Breakfast with Santa’ that benefits PACS.

 

When asked what they enjoy most about volunteering, the Bravos highlighted the joy of interacting with our guests, meeting new people, being part of a supportive team, and having the chance to make a difference. Claire also shared a story with us about a young guest who always goes out of his way to find her just to say, “Thank you for everything you do.” For Tom, he recalls the generous care and support he received from PACS staff and volunteers during his recovery from a back procedure. Everyone took the time to check in on him, offering encouragement and making sure he wasn’t pushing himself too hard.

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Claire and Tom share the same statement as many of our other volunteers when it comes to what advice they’d give to others looking to volunteer - “Just do it”. They believe there’s a role for everyone at PACS, whether you’re outgoing or prefer working behind the scenes. So no matter where you want to volunteer, just do it!

 

When asked about how they feel about PACS and its accomplishments, Claire and Tom shared how they admire the way PACS adapts and improves its operations, especially amid challenges like ongoing construction and rising community needs.

 

Now retired, they enjoy walking, bowling, spending time with their grandchildren, and playing Quizzo with their friends. They describe themselves as “straightforward people” who appreciate the welcoming and hard working culture at PACS. “We just really like it here,” they add.

 

Claire and Tom Bravo are more than just two of our volunteers—they are part of the heart of what makes PACS truly special. We are grateful for the kindness, humility, and commitment they bring to our community every day.

"The Heart of PACS" Awards

Every year, we hold a special event to express our gratitude towards the hardworking volunteers who support our mission. 

In December 2023,  approximately 135 volunteers came together at PACS to be honored for their dedication and efforts.

 

We were honored to have the presence of several elected officials at the event:

  • Senator Katie Muth & Nikki Whitlock

  • Chester County Commissioner Chair Marian Moskowitz

  • Phoenixville Mayor Peter Urscheler

 

Senator Katie Muth’s office awarded all of the PACS Volunteers The State of Pennsylvania Senatorial Certificate of Recognition - In recognition of "commitment to volunteer service to Phoenixville and surrounding communities”.

 

Mayor Peter awarded all of the PACS Volunteers Phoenixville Borough Office of the Mayor Citation - in recognition of “outstanding volunteer contributions to Phoenixville Area Community Services.”

 

A select group of our volunteers were  also awarded The President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Biden. This award is given to those who have volunteered a certain amount of hours.  Elaine Miller won the Gold Presidential Award for roughly 700 hours of volunteer service!
 

Joseph J. Cowan, Jr. has been recognized as the recipient of the "Lois Gould Volunteer of the Year Award" for 2023. The award, named after PACS' founder Lois Gould, will be presented to the Volunteer of the Year annually.

 

We are extremely grateful to all of our volunteers who devote their time and effort to support our mission every day.

Lois Gould Volunteer of The Year Winners

2024 - Elaine Miller

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2023 - Joe Cowan

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Phoenixville Area Community Services

LOCATION:

101 Buchanan Street

Phoenixville, PA 19460

610-933-1105

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HOURS OF OPERATION:

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Tuesday to Friday

9am - 4pm

Saturday

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