Benevilla recently hosted an event to honor leaders who have influenced and made significant contributions to improving the lives of residents who live and work in our community and have generously contributed to sustain and grow the non-profit organization. Highlights of the festive event included awards for community service and business leadership showcasing the appreciation Benevilla has for the hard work, dedication, and passion our donors demonstrate. “Benevilla would not be the amazing resource it is today in the Northwest Valley without the support of our incredibly selfless donors” states Sara Villanueva, Benevilla Vice President of Donor Relations. “We sincerely appreciate all they do for us and our community.”
Benevilla is proud to congratulate Marietta and the late, Ted Johns, as the Benevilla 2021 Bill Wolfrey Community Service honorees. We thank them for their passion, dedication, and support of our mission to enrich lives. Ted and Marietta have been involved with and supportive of Benevilla since moving to the area in 2016. After being introduced to the organization by a Benevilla board member and good friend, Ted and Marietta quickly realized they had a love for Benevilla and our commitment to compassion – building a caring community of neighbors helping neighbors.
Ted was a Lutheran minister for over 40 years and Marietta started her career as an elementary school teacher before eventually becoming a Senior Vice President of American Express. In the fall of 2019, Ted & Marietta graciously supported Benevilla with a major gift supporting the purchase of the “Neofect Smart Glove” device for our Life Enrichment Adult Day Programs serving members recovering from a stroke or suffering from Parkinson’s disease. The Smart Glove is designed to induce neuroplasticity for hand function of patients with neurological brain injuries by providing game-like, virtual, exercises. Through volunteerism and community philanthropy, Ted and Marietta have been able to make a true impact in the lives of many.
Benevilla would also like to congratulate AARP Arizona, the Benevilla 2021 Business Leadership Award honoree. AARP Arizona has generously supported Benevilla since 2016 with organization and event specific sponsorships, including our popular Caregiver Connect event series. Earlier this spring, AARP underwrote the cost of the shred trucks for 2 Benevilla shred-a-thons, assisting Benevilla in raising over $8,700 supporting our community services and programs and helping community members dispose of over 32,000 pounds of documents securely and safely. AARP staff have been guest presenters at several Benevilla events, and their team has even volunteered in our Life Enrichment programs providing activities, socialization, and friendship for our members. They have always looked for ways to support and partner with Benevilla and other local organizations and we are pleased to have them as advocates for our mission of enriching lives.