Support the Newport Senior Center
There to Help
Newport Service Organization Serves As Key Supporter Of The Newport Senior Center
Incorporated in 1990, the Newport Service Organization is a non-profit, all volunteer organization which seeks to make the region a healthier place via charitable contributions. “Our organization is solely dedicated to financially supporting local health and safety-related organizations and groups,” said NSO President Marty Lovely. “Our volunteers always put the health and well-being of our community first and foremost.”
She went on to say that funds are raised via the Newport Thrift Shop, which is located across the street from the Shaw’s Plaza. “Our volunteers are everyday individuals who dedicate their time, energy, hard work and determination to raise money for the NSO through their tireless work,” said Lovely. Since 1992, the organization has donated more than 1.5 million dollars to numerous non-profits.
Lovely said that the NSO has been supporting the work of the Senior Center for the past several years. “It is well-known that our state is among the oldest in the country and the Center has a range of programs aimed at local seniors.”
“They are great people doing great things and we’re proud to support their work.”
Good Neighbors:
Local Business Owner Kevin Onella Views Support Of the Senior Center as a Community Cause
Reluctant to be in the spotlight, Lempster’s Kevin Onella pauses to reflect when asked why he and his business have supported the Newport Senior Center. “This is about doing the right thing to help older adults, it’s certainly not about me!”
From a family long entrenched in the lumber, construction, and demolition business in the area, Kevin had known of the Center’s work for many years but got a closer glimpse when doing a construction project at the Center some years ago. “It was an eye -opener in two ways,” he recalls. “I didn’t know how many services they offered and understand the level of support across the community they had. “People and businesses in this area-no matter what their political persuasion might be-always come together to support the Senior Center.”
Kevin went on to add that it’s reassuring to know that the services provided by the Center support older adults to safely age in place. “I imagine some people need a little help; others may need more. Either way it’s a vital service.”
“This is a town and community where you care about your neighbors.
I’ll always support the work of the Senior Center.”
Investing Toward A Stronger Community
Mark Pitkin of Sugar River Bank is Proud of Long Legacy of Support
Born and raised in Newport, Mark Pitkin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sugar River Bank has a simple mantra when it comes to supporting local causes- “home is home.”
“I strongly feel that giving back not only helps area non-profits like the Newport Senior Center, it also helps make our community better and stronger,” Mark says. Like many other locals, Mark went away to college but upon entering professional life, found himself drawn back to Newport.As a member of the board of directors at nearby New London Hospital, he knows full well the value of local health and human service providers. He also knows first-hand the value of the Senior Center as some of his older family members have been participants in the programs there, from board games and cribbage to congregate dining. “The Newport Senior Center does so many things well and is a true community resource. And it’s particularly important as a place where seniors can gather-given that loneliness impacts man in our community.”
Since its inception in 1895, the Bank has been a proud supporter of a range of organizations, many of which serve as key parts of the area safety net. “That’s always been part of our mission and will always continue to be,” he said. “The Center is truly a special place and we’re glad to be able to support its work.”
