By Nance Ebert, Contributing Writer
Photo/Nance Ebert
Marlborough – The Friends of the Marlborough Seniors held a special viewing of the newly installed “Giving Tree” at the Marlborough Senior Center Nov. 17 to thank those who helped support it. Mayor Arthur Vigeant was one of the 14 major sponsors who attended the event.
The tree was initially the vision of Peg Bouvier, a dedicated member of the Friends of the Marlborough Seniors. She initiated the project and presented her idea to the Executive Board as a fundraising opportunity.
“As a child growing up in Dorchester, I remember seeing this beautiful metal tree at Carney Hospital while visiting my father. I thought that this idea could be implemented right here in Marlborough. We did a lot of investigating and spoke to Lou Papile, from Engraveables. He has been wonderful,” said Bouvier, a subcommittee member.
Initially, a marketing letter was sent out seeking donations to help purchase the tree. In exchange for the donations, those who contributed received stones, which are situated at the base of the tree.
“We are so grateful to the city of Marlborough and the businesses for their ongoing support,” Bouvier said. “We couldn’t keep our doors opened without them. The donors are all the “rocks” at the base of the tree. They have been behind the Senior Center for generations.”
Monies raised from the tree will help to support the Marlborough Council on Aging. Stones can still be purchased as well as leaves to help the tree “grow.” Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or memorial, the Giving Tree is a nice way to pay tribute to a loved one while donating to the Friends of the Marlborough Seniors organization.
Each leaf or stone will be engraved with the name and text specified. All who purchase either a stone or a leaf will be notified once these items have been mounted on the wall display.
“For the people of Marlborough, the Giving Tree is a beautiful tribute that exceeded my expectation,” said Gretta Holland, Friends of the Marlborough Seniors subcommittee member.
“This project really hits home for me. I lost my grandmother 10 years ago and have been involved with the Senior Center for a while. It’s really nice to show people that this is a dedication to them,” said fellow subcommittee member Angela Fitzdaniel.
The project took about a year in conjunction with the opening of the new Senior Center in March at 40 New St. The installation is centrally located in the main lobby area.
“Our Executive Board, which includes Sean Fay, David Morticelli, Carol DeRienzo and Barbara McGuire are all incredible people that are so dedicated,” Bouvier said. “Trish Pope, our new director of the Senior Center, supports us every day. They saw our vision and helped us to execute it.”
Sponsors for the tree included: Avidia Bank, Digital Federal Credit Union, St. Mary’s Credit Union, Fitzgerald & Collins Funeral Home, John P. Rowe Funeral Home, Christopher Heights of Marlborough, Whitney Place Assisted Living Residences, Bouvier Pharmacy Inc., Marlborough Hills Healthcare Center, Mrs. Mickey Grasso, Mrs. Shirley Koulopoulos, The Reservoir Center for Health and Rehabilitation, New Horizons, and Mayor Arthur Vigeant.
Those who wish to purchase a leaf or a stone or would like additional information on how to help this tree grow may call Peg Bouvier at 978-568-0033.
