Longtime YMOW volunteer Mary Fayad was honored at our Meals on Heels event Saturday, Sept. 24, with the Step Up to the Plate award. Created in honor and memory of former YMOW Board President and supporter Cathy Day, the award is given annually to someone who exemplifies Cathy’s commitment to YMOW and can-do attitude.
Like Cathy, Mary has helped YMOW in countless ways, from serving as a tour guide during our Holiday Home Tour to delivering meals to our homebound clients. While our volunteer pool dwindled during COVID, Mary continued her service, finding projects that allowed her to socially distance herself while also helping the work of YMOW.
In accepting her award, Mary said she often thinks of Cathy as she continues the work that she enjoyed for more than eight years at YMOW.
“As I prepare meals for delivery, organize the personal care pantry or knock on a client’s door, I sometimes stop to think ‘What would Cathy do?’ The answer is, she would do whatever needed to be done, and she would do it with a smile,” Mary said.
Mary was presented with a small collection of plates, each hand decorated by a YMOW client. One of those clients, Sonia, recorded a special message to Mary that was included in the Meals on Heels program.
“Mary brightens my day every time she knocks on my door. Congratulations, Mary, and thank you to everyone at Meals on Wheels who keeps me happy, healthy and safe,” Sonia said.
We join Sonia in congratulating Mary on being chosen for this year’s award, and we thank Mary for her keeping Cathy’s legacy alive through her ongoing service to YMOW.
