TO: Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Joseph J. Kavanagh, City Clerk
DATE: June 5, 2019
Title
ART SCHMALL, 2019 BROWARD SENIOR HALL OF FAME ELECTEE.
BACKGROUND: Margate resident Art Schmall is 80 years young and VITAS Healthcare Superhero! A Patient Care Volunteer, 'Amazing Art' says, "It's a privilege to visit patients and be part of their lives. It's like I'm working for God. A natural talker, I know how to listen as well."
Volunteer Services Manager, Veronica Palomino explains, "Art speaks to new volunteers during orientation inspiring others to volunteer." A Navy veteran and retired business owner, Art carries a caseload of 33-35 patients, spending an hour with each person. Ali Leon, Volunteer Coordinator says, "In his eight years, Art has given more than 7,000 hours of comfort, respect and kindness to many patients."
Mr. Schmall works with nurses, hospice aides, social workers and chaplains. His meticulous, patient notes contribute to overall patient care. Associate General Manager, Donna Borland explains, "Art's been Volunteer of the Year many times. Our corporate leaders have honored him with the VITAS Best Recognition Award."
When his wife became terminally ill with Alzheimer's, VITAS helped. Art decided hospice was calling his heart. He sees patients whose families live out-of-town or only have rare visits. Some have no family. He is their 'volunteer family.' 'Amazing Art' is a senior superhero and merits recognition in the Broward Senior Hall of Fame.
Write-up provided by the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Broward County.
CONTACT PERSON: Joseph J. Kavanagh, City Clerk