09/18/2026
Family, friend, and neighbor caregivers create the moments, traditions, and memories that stay with us long after childhood. Our Executive Coordinator, Julie Gore, shares her story:
"I immediately think of my grandma, Lavina. She was the "strict" grandma, but she always had a heart of gold.
She would take care of my little sister and me on Friday nights and Saturday mornings until noon, when my mom got off work and picked us up. There was always, always, always a home-cooked meal with dessert. Saturday mornings meant homemade bread, oatmeal, and percolated coffee. She introduced me to coffee at a really early age, and I was only allowed to drink it at her house.
She loved playing cards, so we spent hours playing Double Solitaire, Crazy Eights, and Kings Corner. I still love playing those games today. She also loved watching sports and was a very loud armchair cheerleader.
Every Christmas, all 11 grandchildren received something beautiful that she had sewn for us: quilted holiday maxi skirts, pajamas, hats, scarves, mitten sets, and afghans crocheted in our favorite colors. It felt like a warm hug because she labored over each gift.
She was also a devout Catholic. We would accompany her every Saturday morning to help clean the church, organize the missalettes, sharpen pencils, restock gift envelopes, and stack hymnals and Bibles in each pew.
She had an amazing work ethic, and her dedication to her family is something I carry with me every day."
