The Florida Health Care Association honored Elks Lodge No. 1892 in Green Cove Springs, volunteers for Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans’ Nursing Home in St. Augustine, with this year’s Group Volunteer of the Year Award at the FHCA 2024 Annual Conference and Trade Show.

The Elks Lodge has been volunteering and donating to Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans’ Nursing Home since the center opened more than 14 years ago.

“From the start, the Elks Lodge has been there to enhance the lives of the veteran residents and the staff who care for them,” said Heather Salerno, Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans’ Nursing Home administrator.

“We are grateful for their unwavering support of the veterans in our care and applaud them for this well-deserved honor of FHCA’s 2024 Group Volunteer of the Year," she said. 

The Elks Lodge hosts monthly bingo events, annual fishing trips, ice cream socials and other activities to help recognize and build meaningful relationships with the veteran residents.

“The Elks Lodge No. 1892 is passionate about serving and honoring their local veterans and goes above and beyond to give back to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation,” said Emmett Reed, CEO of FHCA. “Congratulations to our 2024 Group Volunteer of the Year, and thank you for your compassion and service.”

The FHCA is a federation that represents 86% of the state's nursing centers and other long-term care facilities

FHCA’s Volunteer of the Year Awards recognize exceptional individuals who significantly contribute to the well-being of residents and the long-term care community. These awards are part of FHCA’s annual Long Term Care Achievement Awards, which honor the exemplary contributions of long-term care leaders and volunteers who demonstrate commitment to quality care daily through their dedication to residents, staff, and the long-term care profession.