Joyce Schriner talked about retiring long before 2020. She decided to retire last winter from her position as manager of the Utica Senior Center. A large celebration was planned for March 15. Family, friends and neighbors near and far arranged to attend in hopes of showing their appreciation for Schriner’s volunteerism and dedication.
Of course, the coronavirus pandemic interfered with those plans. Through the turbulence of a pandemic, Schriner agreed to continue managing the senior center. During a summer when contact with neighbors deemed “high risk” was discouraged, Schriner arranged drive-up meals. She also toiled on grant applications, reached out to isolated community members in Utica and went as far as helping them achieve their daily tasks.
Jody Wiemer of the Utica Aging Commission Board said Schriner is known in Utica as a person who gets things done. Wiemer also said she has a gift of strongly encouraging others to volunteer and make positive changes happen.
“She made it a point to develop a relationship with each person who walked in the door,” Wiemer said. “She strived to make the Utica Senior Center a warm, caring place for people of all ages to be involved.”
At last, on Dec. 9, Schriner was recognized for her years of service with a celebration. Not all those who originally planned to attend could make it. Even those who came to celebrate Schriner did so while social distancing.
Instead of retiring and stepping away from volunteerism, Schriner has taken the role of Utica historian at the Utica Museum.
