ROSE PIERCE

Rose Pierce, 84, has provided dedicated volunteer service to the veteran community in Poughkeepsie, New York for 54 years. She takes the time to organize and facilitate social activities for veterans, visiting others in local hospitals and visiting veterans who are nursing home residents.

Pierce is a lifelong resident of the City of Poughkeepsie, and she has spent her entire life assisting those less fortunate. During her career at the United States Post Office, Pierce was known for her willingness to always go beyond the ordinary call of duty. Since her retirement in 1979, Pierce dedicates her days to volunteer service.

Pierce works to bring sunshine into the lives of other senior citizens. She takes neighbors to the doctor’s office, grocery store, or out for entertainment. She is also active in community affairs and has been Treasurer and Leader of the Dutchess County Chapter of Statewide Senior Action Council, a member of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and Chairperson for Voice of Discovery and Arts for youth groups. In addition, she has just completed two terms as President of the Poughkeepsie Area Chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons.

Pierce spends many hours on the telephone making contacts to various groups to assist veterans. She also helps with the Parades at the City of Poughkeepsie for Memorial Day, VFW Day at Castle Point and Loyalty Day at the VA Medical Center procuring musical units. In addition, she works at the Castle Point Medical Center putting on monthly birthday parties, distributing birthday cards and gifts. She also bakes homemade cakes and cookies for patients. She sings, dances and visits with the wheelchair and bed-ridden patients along with feeding those who needed assistance. Recently Pierce has started a program called History of the Flags. She speaks on the history of flags in various schools and organized activities.

The Dutchess County Legislature designated Pierce as a Dutchess County Senior Citizen of the Year in 1988. Mayor Robert A. Bleakley gave a Proclamation to Pierce on March 4, 1989 because of her service.