Approximately 75 people gathered Sunday afternoon at the Immanuel Lutheran Church. Balloons, flowers, food and cake abounded. Music was provided by local favorites “The Horse Mountain Jazz Band.” Past and present staff, volunteers, clients, board members and other supporters gathered to give a proper send-off to Westcott, who retired from her position as Executive Director of the Center in September, following an ugly summer of turmoil.
[Note: This reporter is a past board member of the Survival Center and has been vocal in her criticism of the Town and other entities for creating that turmoil.]
Westcott thanked all in attendance for their commitment to the Survival Center through the years.
“All of you have the Center’s best interests at heart,” she said, explaining her confidence that this would ensure its continued success in the future.
But then it was her turn to be thanked.
Board President Richard Habhab told of his long association with Westcott and the Center and how much she had helped him. “You always had the right words – you always knew just what to do and what to say,” Habhab said.
Family members of Jane Holappa, the late founder of the Survival Center, were in attendance. Habhab read a card from them praising Westcott for staying true to Holappa’s vision.
Habhab introduced State Representative Ellen Story, who brought a citation from the Massachusetts Legislature recognizing Westcott’s long service.
Story praised Westcott’s patience and devotion, noting “how incredibly lucky we have been in this community to have Vangie in our midst for so many years.”
Many spoke of Westcott’s skills as a listener, her deep sense of caring and of constantly looking out for others. They credited her with creating an environment where all felt welcomed and helped, and never judged.
Jonathan Hanke, a long-time volunteer, noted that people often first came to the Center because they needed help, “But the second time they came in, it was to volunteer.”
Clients past and present talked about the maternal role Westcott filled in their lives, providing love, discipline, help and support. Westcott’s sons spoke of their great admiration for their mother and the vital role the Center had played in their lives.
Speeches concluded with Habhab playing guitar and singing a song by the folk singer Melanie in tribute to Westcott. Ronald Meck, new to the Center’s Board of Directors, then continued the singing and guitar-playing while Westcott cut the cake and guests enjoyed a sweet farewell.
-- Stephanie O’Keeffe
