Whether helping prepare new patient folders or volunteering in the chapel of her local church, 92-year-old Violeta Ellis has spent the past 30 years serving others in the local community. Ellis, a resident of Abbotswood at Stonehenge, finds purpose and fulfillment in volunteering and enjoys building relationships with those she meets. As soon as the week begins, Ellis is out the door and on the way to the organizations that need her help. Ellis is productive and connected to the greater community while volunteering, and she has no intention of stopping any time soon.
“When I began volunteering, I realized very quickly just how much I enjoyed doing it,” said Ellis. “I wanted to stay busy, but I also felt strongly about making life better for someone else. Staying active has always been a priority of mine, and each opportunity allows me to do so. I started volunteering with Meals on Wheels when I was engaged years ago and enjoyed getting out in the community to meet new people. It’s incredibly rewarding, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Every Monday, Ellis heads over to UNC Rex Hospital to make a difference and complete special projects. One of 1,400 dedicated volunteers, Ellis collates informational materials for nurses to give patients to answer their many questions. Ellis also volunteers at her local church, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, where she serves in the chapel greeting churchgoers as they come in for prayer or any other spiritual reason. She goes to the church every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and considers it a wonderful opportunity to meet those visiting the chapel. She also learns more about the spiritual needs of those in the congregation. According to Ellis’s daughter, Monica Schario, her mom has a heart for helping others and volunteerism remains a defining characteristic of her personality.
“My mom always cared about the welfare of those around her and sought to do everything she could for those in need,” said Schario. “Mom is always busy and on-the-go looking for the next thing, and it’s this drive that keeps her active. It’s been a joy to witness her volunteer in various capacities over the years, and it’s incredibly special to imagine the lives she has touched in the process. She would never admit it, but her dedication has positively impacted others in ways that will be felt for years to come.”
In addition to her efforts at Rex Hospital, Ellis spent 20 years volunteering at the Catholic Outreach Center the first Saturday of each month. During her time there, she helped in the children’s section and assisted Spanish speakers as an interpreter. Ellis has also spent time volunteering internationally in Paraguay, Ecuador, Spain and Egypt through various organizations including the American Embassy in Paraguay and Ecuador.
“At Abbotswood at Stonehenge, we believe in the importance of giving back and serving the greater community,” said David Sexton, executive director of Abbotswood at Stonehenge. “We are inspired daily by individuals like Violeta Ellis who set the standard for what it means to go above and beyond to help those in need. We hope that by sharing Violeta’s story, her efforts will inspire others to discover ways they can make a difference.”