JASA Volunteer Spotlight On...Lourdes Alfonso and Theodore Burton

Three months ago, interns Lourdes Alfonso and Theodore Burton were presented with a packet of internship opportunities. After finishing their twelve-week program run by the International Center for Disabilities, the two were ready to use the administrative and human services tools they learned and have a hands-on experience working with seniors.

Lourdes, a former recreation director for New York City Parks, was used to programming activities, and JASA Cooper Square presented her with a new challenge: programming for a building of seniors. Theodore, a former security worker, had experience helping others as well and liked that Cooper Square gave him the opportunity to work with seniors, too.

As intern-program directors at Cooper Square, Theo and Lourdes have worked with the fundraisers, Friendly Calls program, bingo, “Movie Tuesdays,” stress management classes, and special events—like the End of Summer Luau Party on September 4th. The best part about interning at Cooper Square for Theo is the positive feedback he receives from the tenants. He likes giving them something to look forward to, and seeing them out of their apartments makes him feel good about his work. As a friendly caller, Theo makes daily calls to tenants whose family is far away. “It makes me feel good, knowing he’s helping someone out by showing I care,” he says about Friendly Calls. Lourdes has enjoyed getting to know the tenants and seeing them enjoy the programs she’s worked on. Seeing someone in the elevator smile at her because they know she’s responsible for many of the programs makes her feel great.
We wish them both luck in the future and thank them for their wonderful work!