Mike Aiello Day, ribbon cutting
mark hospice celebration
Volunteers traditionally are at the heart of nonprofit works, often going about their business to little fanfare or notice.
But Lakeside Hospice and a group of supporting partners turned one occasion for celebration into one that lauded one of its most dedicated volunteers – Mike Aiello.
In a surprise recognition at the ribbon cutting ceremony of Lakeside Hospice’s new renovations, representatives of the hospice and other groups honored Aiello for his selfless acts of offering a helping hand. It was proclaimed, appropriately, “Mike Aiello Day.”
Aiello has been volunteering at Lakeside Hospice for at least 15 years, said Executive Director Paul Garing. He is a person that sees a need and always shows up to fill it. Whether it’s making sure the pump in the fountain is working properly, tree limbs are cleared or checking doors to ensure they’re locked, “he just shows up and does it,” Garing said. “He does everything for us.”
As others attested, Lakeside Hospice is not the only recipient of his good works. He volunteers with ASPCI, volunteered with and served as director of the Love Pantry food bank, works with buildings and grounds at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and is known for good deeds in his community of Pine Harbor.
Municipal Judge Brandi Hufford read a proclamation declaring it Mike Aiello Day and noted she will be presenting it to the City of Pell City for official designation.
“They all came together in a surprise party to honor him,” Garing said. Photos and newspaper clippings were hung in a display to pay tribute, and representatives of ASPCI, Habitat for Humanity, Our Lady of the Lake, Love Pantry, Pine Harbor Association and of course, Lakeside Hospice spoke about him and his good works..
As part of the day’s festivities, Lakeside Hospice did cut the ribbon on renovations to its building, including new paint, cosmetic additions and landscaping to create an inviting and welcoming environment for staff and patients.
Lakeside Hospice was founded in 1991 as a nonprofit hospice, not only serving patients with Medicare or insurance, but also patients regardless of their ability to pay.
A cornerstone of Lakeside Hospice is its volunteers, who provide direct care, respite care, comfort care programs, general maintenance, accounting and office services.
Aiello would certainly be tops on that list, Garing said. “I’ve never seen anyone as dedicated a volunteer as he is.”
