Volunteer Spotlight: Therese Rakushin

Therese Rakushin and Paul Helgeson collect for Orchard Village Tag Days 2023.

Since 2012, Therese Rakushin has been a vibrant part of Orchard Village, dedicating her time to making every event special. She’s staffed the Blossom Gala, cheered on models at fashion shows, organized holiday gift-giving, and brought festive spirit to Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, and seasonal parties. She has even stepped in as a hairstylist at our residential homes, adding a personal touch to her volunteering. But where Therese truly lights up is during bingo games, watching clients beam with excitement as they call out “Bingo!”

Therese’s journey with Orchard Village began when Lyndsay Mosser, Senior Director of Program Supports, invited her to join the Village Volunteers. Her passion for advocating for individuals with developmental disabilities has been the focus of her work ever since. “Orchard Village does a great job integrating the participants into the community,” she says. “My interactions with them mean the world to me. They enjoy the parties and gatherings, and I love helping to make them happen.”

Reflecting on her decade-long involvement, Therese values the relationship she has with Orchard Village’s dedicated staff and appreciates how the organization has evolved over the years. Her unwavering commitment and infectious enthusiasm make every event more meaningful for the Orchard Village community.

Thank you, Therese, for everything you bring to Orchard Village!

Interested in joining our team of volunteers? Contact Skyla McKim at 847-967-1800 ext. 119 or at Skyla_mckim@orchardvillage.org.