Volunteers play a key role in helping charitable and nonprofit organizations to provide important services to their clients.
And if you’re searching for an example of someone in Northeast Ohio who has a long background as a dedicated volunteer, look no further than Bob Zonneville of Mentor.
In recognition of 30 years of dedicated service to Hospice of the Western Reserve, the Mentor resident and World War II veteran was recently honored by the organization. This tribute to Zonneville took place in conjunction with a celebration of his 100th birthday.
A group of family and friends joined Hospice staffers in the celebration on Jan. 23, Zonneville’s centennial birthday, that included an acknowledgment from Gov. Mike DeWine.
Information from the organization highlights his contributions, stating that “Bob Zonneville has been a cornerstone of support for Hospice of the Western Reserve for decades. His dedication as a donor, volunteer and advocate has made a lasting impact on the organization and the thousands of families it serves.”
One testament to his influence is the initiation of a golf outing that took place over several years and raised almost $100,000 for the organization. Zonneville recalls that the inspiration for the endeavor emerged while having dinner with his late friend and former News-Herald staffer Bob Murphy.
They initially planned a 9-hole event, with Zonneville handling the organization and Murphy promoting it through his newspaper column. The event’s success in its first year led to its establishment as an annual tradition. Over time, it evolved to include sponsors, a dinner and a raffle which substantially increased its profits.
He fondly remembers the year that one extraordinary donation was made — a blimp ride courtesy of a Goodyear Co. employee.
Aware that Zonneville was active in veteran-related endeavors, former Hospice of the Western Reserve Executive Director David Simpson approached him about a wish to begin a Peaceful and Proud Program for those who had served in the military.
After mentioning that he was in need of a veteran to help start the program, Zonneville, who had received two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for his heroic efforts, responded “Well, you’ve got one now.”
From that point, he trained to become a full volunteer, conducting pinning ceremonies and making social calls. Pinning ceremonies are special events where veterans are recognized and presented with commemorative lapel pins issued by the Ohio Hospice Veterans Partnership to show appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice.
Emily Gleason, a volunteer service manager at Hospice of the Western Reserve, commends Zonneville for his outstanding contributions and warm dedication.
“He just brings a presence when he enters the room,” she said. “He’s going to greet everyone he sees. No one is ignored. He says hello enthusiastically … makes eye contact … things that might seem typical but are not so typical these days. It’s about the people around him, it’s not about him.”
Gleason also noted that, despite Zonneville’s active involvement in other area service organizations, he willingly rearranges his schedule to respond promptly whenever Hospice calls upon him.
Despite his advanced age, he continues to drive, mow his own lawn, and accomplish tasks that many younger individuals find challenging. He credits his strong capabilities to maintaining a positive mindset and keeping himself busy.
When asked what advice he would give to those considering volunteering he said, “Do it … If you’re thinking about helping someone, just do it … people are so nice and so appreciative. I sleep good at night because I’m contributing.”
Here’s hoping that people will follow Zonneville’s advice and help to bolster the ranks of volunteers in Northeast Ohio.
