Unexpected celebration at Point/Arc for Gay Middendorf on her 85th birthday, with her continuing to dedicate her time to volunteering efforts
Celebrating 42 Years of Volunteer Service: Gay Middendorf's Devotion to The Point/Arc
Gay Middendorf, a dedicated volunteer at The Point/Arc, recently celebrated her birthday in a special way. A surprise party was held in her honour at The Point/Arc, an organisation that she has been serving for 42 years without receiving a single paycheck.
The Point/Arc, founded in 1972, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve their highest potential educationally, socially, residentially, and vocationally. The organisation, which celebrated its 53rd anniversary last year, offers a range of activities including dances, basketball, bowling, movie nights, and special trips for its members.
Gay Middendorf's journey with The Point/Arc began in 1984, a year after she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. After her recovery, she started helping out with typing work. Over the years, her role has expanded to include computer work, follow-up correspondence, writing letters, and making phone calls.
Gay's commitment to The Point/Arc is not limited to her work. She often prioritizes helping long-time friend Judi Gerding at the organisation. Judi, who was supportive of Gay during her illness, organised the surprise birthday party at The Point/Arc.
Judi and Gay were classmates at Notre Dame Academy in Park Hills, Class of 1958. Their friendship has stood the test of time, with Gay visiting Judi with gifts during difficult times. Judi appreciates Gay's work at The Point/Arc, estimating that she has saved the organisation more than $300,000.
Gay believes that her work at The Point/Arc is a blessing. She feels that she has gained more than she has given through her volunteer work. The initial push for the creation of The Point/Arc was a group of parents fighting for the educational rights of their children with disabilities. The founding of The Point/Arc in 1972 was also supported by the 11th U.S. Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR), which took over the mission at the Point Alpha Observation Post.
As Gay Middendorf blows out the candles on her birthday cake, it's clear that her dedication to The Point/Arc and its members is unwavering. Her story is a testament to the power of friendship, resilience, and selfless service.
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