by Jill Edelman Barberie
SPHERE in Action is the brainchild of SPHERE Program Lead Arlene Litt, mother of member Rachel Litt, and well-known to the Ridgefield community for her work in the public school system. Conceived by Arlene and other SPHERE members and volunteers, the program aims to provide members with volunteer opportunities in the town, with the dual goal of showing gratitude to the town that has supported SPHERE for over 35 years, while showcasing the capabilities of its members. The three program leads for this program include Arlene, Judy McCormick, and Jacob Barrett. These three co-leads worked diligently to develop the concept, create the community connections, involve SPHERE members in the planning process, and implement the volunteer activities.
Each member is required to donate at least five hours per calendar year to SPHERE volunteer activities. Many have already exceeded that amount this year as they are excited to give back at events as varied as: CHIRP concerts; East Ridge Middle School Souper Bowl food drive, which distributed food to Founders Hall, the Ballard Green Food Pantry, and Ruby’s pantries; Pride in the Park; The Town Party at the Playhouse; Run Like A Mother; Princesses in the Park; and the Lions Club Shredding Day.
In the Fall, SPHERE members have been invited to work concessions at the Ridgefield Chorale performances and are looking forward to a Dorothy Day sandwich-making event and a jewelry-making workshop for the Holiday Stroll. On their own, members are finding additional volunteer opportunities – two members offered their services to the Pound Ridge Seniors to help set up for their luncheon, and one member volunteers weekly at Green Chimneys.
The SPHERE in Action twin goals of increasing community partnerships and member self-esteem have merged successfully, demonstrating that people of all abilities can serve their communities with many skills and grateful hearts – a win-win for everyone.
Arlene is very clear that the success of the new venture is due, in no small measure, to the combined muscle of two extraordinary co-leads, Judy McCormick and Jacob Barrett, and exceptional volunteers Wendy Lionetti, Megan Marden, Eileen Tavolacci, Anne Ellsworth, Mike Litt, and others. Positive and enthusiastic feedback from parents of members add to the sweetness of this latest SPHERE endeavor.
Fun Facts
- Number of events to date: 11
- Total member volunteer hours: 120
- Members who have exceeded the 5-hour minimum: 10
Keep an eye out for our members at town events. They would love to say hello and share their experiences with you.