DR. SUE ELLEN ATKINSON
This year, we are honored to recognize Dr. Sue Ellen Atkinson as our Volunteer of the Year. Since 2019, she has been a committed, caring, and consistent volunteer in our Foster Care Neighborhood, coming every single week to spend time with our little ones and help caregivers in any way she can. Our volunteer manager shares that Sue Ellen is
attentive, patient, and truly present when engaging with the children, doing it all “with a warm smile and kind spirit.” About her time at Casa, Dr. Sue Ellen says, “I have been
provided purpose in service to others, including children and caregivers. It has helped me recognize my own identity and value my identity as a person who likes to play, have fun,
and laugh with the children and caregivers…I shall forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve and support Casa de Esperanza. Above all, volunteering at Casa has taught me
patience, experience, hope, and love.” Congratulations to Dr. Sue Ellen on receiving the Volunteer of the Year Award from Casa de Esperanza! We are so happy to have you as part of our community.
MCGOVERN MEDICAL SCHOOL
We are excited to give the Group Volunteer of the Year Award to the Pediatric Student Association at McGovern Medical School, an organization of future physicians who began volunteering with us in 2017. They have consistently brought joy to our neighborhood
with monthly playdates, always arriving with a snack and an interactive activity to engage and connect with the children. This commitment allows them to gain valuable experience
working with children while serving the pediatric population beyond the healthcare setting.
Paris, their representative, shared that the most meaningful part of their experience is seeing the children grow, especially as they come out of their shell during each playdate. They added, “The safety, stability, and support that Casa provides these children during such an important time in their life not only greatly helps these kids in the moment, but it also sets these children up for happier, healthier lives in the future.” We are so grateful to the McGovern Medical School for their incredible partnership and commitment to the children and families we serve. Congratulations to the McGovern Medical School on their 2025 Group Volunteer of the Year Award from Casa de Esperanza!
