There’s a saying: “Heroes are those who lend a hand when others are in need.”
Downers Grove is fortunate to have many such heroes who work hard each day to serve the needs of older adults in the community. On September 12, Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove held its first Local Heroes Day.
Dan Harrington, Executive Director of Oak Trace, said the event was a “chance to recognize some wonderful people.” What he hopes will become an annual tradition pays homage to the many acts of heroism that occurred in our country on and after 9-11-2001. “Recognizing the police, fire, and other emergency responders of what occurred that day is legendary. Today is the opportunity to recognize not only our local police and fire departments but others who serve the community,” he said. “We are very grateful for all of them.”
Honored during the Heroes Day ceremony were Detective Dan Montanari from the Downers Grove Police Department, Public Education Specialist Dale Smith and Director of Social Services, Heather Lippe from the Fire Department, Angelica Rae, LSW and Michelle Wright RN Care Manager from Good Samaritan Hospital, and David Lopez from the maintenance department at Oak Trace. Each honoree is involved in programming, services, education, advocacy and care for older adults living in Downers Grove.
“We are so fortunate to have such dedicated heroes living amongst our Village,” said Harrington.
