Our gratitude is in full bloom! At VISTE, our volunteers are the roots of our mission and a leading reason we are able to thrive. Through their dedication, compassion, and generosity, VISTE continues to grow into a stronger, more supportive community for the seniors we serve – helping them remain safely and independently in their […]
News
President’s Message: National Volunteer Month
National Volunteer Month takes place throughout April to honor the significant impact of volunteers and encourage community service. VISTE takes this opportunity to celebrate during our Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. So, to quote Robert Orben. “Here’s to all volunteers, those dedicated people who believe in all work and no pay.” My mother modeled the volunteer […]
President’s Message: Greetings in the New Year!
2025 was a milestone year in many ways and at the same time, an anxiety-producing one for many seniors. Recurring news coverage of potential cuts or interruptions to SNAP benefits, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid left many seniors feeling anxious and uncertain about their future. At VISTE, we saw a significant increase in the number […]
Meet Marijo Plott!
Meet Marijo Plott, VISTE’s Donor Relations Coordinator! Marijo began working at VISTE in 2024, and we are delighted to have her on the team! In addition to being a friendly resource for VISTE donors, Marijo also does gift posting, acknowledgement letters, and reconciliation, as well as providing support for special events and outreach activities. Originally […]
President’s Message: The Gift of Perspective
Every Thanksgiving, something special happens when volunteers and our elderly neighbors connect through VISTE. A simple meal and a few kind words bring joy to a senior who might otherwise spend the day alone—and in return, the volunteer walks away with a deeper sense of gratitude and perspective. That exchange of compassion is what makes […]
Volunteer Spotlight: Nan Lee
What a pleasure it is to visit with longtime community volunteer Nan Lee! She’s friendly, talkative, and has decades of wonderful Lakeland stories to share. She’s also an inspiration – at age 81, Nan is still going strong. Originally from Ohio, Nan attended Allegheny College and taught 2nd through 6th grade students for 37 years. […]
President’s Message: The excitement is building…
Did you know that the number of local seniors in need of assistance is on the rise? In 2024, VISTE received an average of 75 new client applications each month. That jumped to a record number of 95 new applications received this June. How does a local nonprofit that receives limited federal funding, provides services […]
Leadership Notes: Judy Dobbs Award 2025
Congratulations to VISTE Board Member Roger Snyder, recipient of the 2025 Judy Dobbs Leadership Award! The annual award recognizes outstanding service by a Board Member and is named after longtime VISTE volunteer Judy Dobbs. Roger is the president and owner of Dixie Signs in Lakeland, and almost all the signage you see at VISTE and […]
Development News: Leave a Legacy, Help a Senior!
August is National Make-A-Will Month! VISTE encourages everyone to have a will or trust in place, or to update one prepared years ago. By including VISTE in your will or trust, you help ensure VISTE’s mission to benefit local seniors in need will be supported for years to come! Legacy gifts of ANY amount are […]
How Many Volunteers Does It Take to Keep VISTE Thriving?
At VISTE, every volunteer is a vital piece of the puzzle. Whether you’re delivering meals, assisting in the office, sorting groceries in the warehouse, building ramps, picking up donations, or serving on our committees – your time and dedication make a lasting impact! Because of you, we continue to fulfill our mission of helping elderly […]