On October 2, Christine Patrone received a Community Champion award for her dedication to supporting people with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
By Sydney Kerelo
At KenCrest, we are dedicated to providing inclusive and empowering opportunities for the individuals we serve, helping them build meaningful connections in their communities. On October 2, KenCrest honored several individuals throughout the community who have gone above and beyond to help those we support thrive. This year, KenCrest recognized Christine Patrone from Real Church, who has enormously impacted our Chester County Residential Program. For the past two years, Christine has selflessly dedicated her time, energy, and heart to ensuring that the people we support feel included, valued, and celebrated.
Christine’s Partnership with KenCrest
Every week, the individuals in our Chester County Residential Program eagerly look forward to their visit to Real Church, where they assist with distributing food to the local community. This opportunity allows them not only to give back but to gain valuable life skills and confidence. A major part of this rewarding experience is the warm and inclusive environment fostered by Christine, who always goes out of her way to ensure that everyone feels welcome and supported.
Christine takes the time to explain each task in detail, making sure that our individuals understand what needs to be done and feel comfortable in their roles. She tailors tasks to meet their specific needs and abilities, ensuring that everyone is involved in a way that empowers them. Whether it’s handing out food or managing the line, each person has a job that fits their unique skill set.
This level of personalized attention and care is at the heart of what makes Christine so special. She doesn’t just assign tasks—she builds relationships, helping our individuals feel like valued members of the Real Church community. Christine is truly a people person who puts others first, creating a welcoming space where everyone is celebrated for who they are.
Making Special Moments Count
What sets Christine apart is her commitment to going beyond the day-to-day. She doesn’t just work with our individuals—she celebrates them. For example, when their birthdays come around, Christine makes sure these moments are special. Whether it’s organizing a small birthday party or baking a cake so everyone can sing Happy Birthday, she always finds a way to make our individuals feel cherished. These thoughtful gestures may seem small, but they leave a lasting impact on the people we support.
Christine’s kindness extends far beyond the weekly volunteer duties. She also ensures that our KenCrest community is included in Real Church’s various events throughout the year. From inviting our individuals to special services to making sure they’re part of social gatherings, Christine ensures that they feel like part of a larger, loving community.
The Impact of Christine’s Compassion
The impact of Christine’s efforts is reflected in the smiles of the people we support. Every time they visit Real Church, you can see the excitement and happiness on their faces. Christine has created an environment where they not only contribute but thrive. Working alongside other volunteers, our individuals feel a sense of belonging and accomplishment. This community collaboration between KenCrest and Real Church is a shining example of how partnerships can uplift everyone involved.
We are incredibly grateful for Christine’s unwavering commitment to our mission at KenCrest. She exemplifies what it means to be a Community Champion, someone who goes beyond simply volunteering and actively works to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels like they belong. Christine has made an immeasurable difference in their lives by making our individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.
If Christine’s story inspires you and you want to get involved with KenCrest’s mission, there are countless ways to support our efforts to build inclusive communities. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, every bit of help brings us closer to a world where everyone is valued.