Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School served the guests Thanksgiving dinner
PARSIPPANY — Members from Kiwanis Clubs of Greater Dover, Rockaway, Tri-Town, Greater Parsippany, and Morristown joined forces in a heartwarming event, serving over 325 dinners to senior citizens at IHOP locations in Parsippany, Kenvil, and Cedar Knolls. The seniors savored a choice of turkey or chicken dinners, complete with all the traditional trimmings.
The event was coordinated by Frank Cahill, Past Lt. Governor of NJ District Kiwanis, Division 9, and current President of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town.
Michelle Espada, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, showcased her commitment to community engagement during the recent senior meal event at IHOP Kevil. Her presence at the event was marked by meaningful interactions with the seniors. Taking the time to converse and connect with the elderly guests, Espanda’s efforts went beyond mere meal service. Her actions exemplify the personal touch that Kiwanis Club members strive to bring to their community service initiatives, highlighting their dedication to not only serve but also to build relationships and enrich the lives of the seniors they support.
After enjoying their meals, seniors at the Cedar Knolls IHOP were presented with a variety of pies – Apple, Pumpkin, Blueberry, or Coconut Custard – as a complimentary gift from Arden Courts – ProMedica Memory Care Community (Whippany). Similarly, those at the Kenvil and Parsippany IHOPs received Apple, Pumpkin, and Blueberry pies, courtesy of ShopRite Parsippany.
Maria Rosario’s participation underscores the club’s dedication to hands-on community service and the personal connection members like Rosario establish with those they serve. Maria Rosario, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, contributed her time and efforts in the recent senior meal event by personally distributing pies to the seniors. Her involvement added a special touch to the occasion, as she ensured each senior received a delightful dessert.
Adding to the community spirit, Key Club students from Morristown High School, Parsippany Hills High School, Parsippany High School, and Morris Knolls High Schools actively participated alongside Kiwanis members. These enthusiastic volunteers engaged with the seniors, taking orders, serving food, and ensuring a tidy dining experience, thereby creating a memorable and joyous occasion for all involved.
At the Kiwanis Thanksgiving Dinner event held at IHOP, Dover Mayor-Elect James Dodd played an active and engaging role. His participation involved interacting with the patrons, adding a sense of community and leadership to the occasion. Mayor-Elect Dodd’s presence and involvement with the guests underscored his commitment to community engagement and support for local initiatives. His interactions with the attendees not only added a special touch to the event but also reflected his dedication to being an accessible and involved leader in the community, especially in events that bring people together and celebrate community spirit. Dodd is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater DoverDuring the Thanksgiving meal event at IHOP, significant contributions were made by Sergio Rodriguez, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, and Valerie Kuglin from the Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway. Their collaborative efforts were pivotal in the event’s success, showcasing a strong partnership between the two clubs. Notably, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, chartered on August 31, 2023, was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway. This collaboration highlights the synergy and mutual support within the Kiwanis community, demonstrating their commitment to service and community engagement, especially in organizing events that benefit and bring joy to seniors during festive occasions.Frank Cahill, Frank Sblendorio Jr., and Nicolas Limanov, in collaboration with the ShopRite Bakery Manager, played a crucial role in enriching the Thanksgiving Dinner events organized by the Kiwanis Club. They facilitated the donation of 150 assorted pies from ShopRite, which were distributed during the events. This generous contribution not only added a sweet touch to the meals but also exemplified the spirit of community partnership and giving. The involvement of these individuals, along with the support from ShopRite, highlights the collaborative efforts that go into making community events successful and memorable, especially in bringing added joy to the attendees through such thoughtful gestures.Frank Cahill with members of the Morristown High School Key Club. The delicious pies donated by Arden Courts in the backgroundAt the recent Thanksgiving meal event, Mary Dougherty, a member of the Kiwanis Club of Morristown, was seen sharing smiles and joyful moments with members of the Morristown Key Club. This interaction highlights the positive atmosphere and the spirit of community service shared by Kiwanis Club members and the youth of the Key Club. Their collaboration in serving the community, especially during such significant events, not only fosters a sense of unity but also inspires the younger generation to continue the legacy of service and community involvement. Dougherty’s engagement with the Key Club members exemplifies the mentorship and encouragement that the Kiwanis Club provides to young volunteers.
Publisher of Parsippany Focus since 1989 and Morris Focus since 2019, both covering a wide range of events. Mr. Cahill serves as the Executive Board Member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, President of Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town and Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Board.
