This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Kristen L. Kosin-Moran about the sixth annual Mix and Mingle event, which benefits Meals on Wheels Community Services of NEPA.
Residence: Back Mountain, Luzerne County
Professional background: Nonprofit and real estate executive
Title: Executive director of Meals on Wheels Community Services of NEPA
Q: What will be on hand at the event?
A: The sixth annual Mix and Mingle (celebrating our 50th year of serving Lackawanna County) is a relaxed event that features the musical styling of Mark Montello and his band of phenomenal musicians. We include an unparalleled silent art auction as well as a gift pull and one of the most extensive raffles in the region — highlighted by the superior ambiance, service and food stylings of the Glen Oak Country Club.
Q: What is Meals on Wheels’ mission?
A: Meals on Wheels Community Services of NEPA seeks to provide nutritional and supportive services — including but not limited to daily nutrition, safety checks, pet food and in-home care services — to homebound and/or isolated residents across Northeast Pennsylvania, serving elderly and disabled clients daily in Lackawanna County and beyond.
Q: Tell us a little about this year’s honoree.
A: Maureen Pesavento is a perfect example of servant leadership. She believes in serving her community and her neighbors — supporting a large variety of organizations that provide critical community services. Her humility, kindness, compassion and dedication exemplify the values that the Elaine F. Shepard for Exceptional Volunteerism award represents.
Q: What will be auctioned off at the silent auction?
A: Meals on Wheels Community Services of NEPA is incredibly grateful to the professional and amateur local artists who have donated original pieces to the event. We are thrilled to feature artwork by renowned artists such as Sharon Cosgrove and Omar Rodriguez Jr. — Omar will actually be finishing his piece at the event.
Q: What is your fundraising goal?
A: Our goal is to raise $20,000.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
A: All proceeds will directly support Meals on Wheels’ programming providing nutritional and supportive services to clients across NEPA.
Q: Why is community support crucial to this cause?
A: Meals on Wheels relies on donations and volunteers to help us serve over 1,000 meals and hours of services each day.
If you go
What: Sixth annual Mix and Mingle benefiting Meals on Wheels Community Services of NEPA
When: Thursday, Sept. 12, 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Where: Glen Oak Country Club, 250 Oakford Road, Clarks Summit
Details: Tickets cost $75 per person and $125 per couple. For more information, visit mealsonwheels nepa.org or call 570-346-2421.
Laura Rysz is the features copy editor and calendar editor at The Times-Tribune and runs the Talk of the Times column, which focuses on local fundraisers and other events. She also writes Chef’s Table that profiles restaurants around the region. Additionally, Laura curates events online on AccessNEPA.com. Laura is involved in the special Mother’s Day edition and curates occasional features Marry Memories and Times Travelers. She is a graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School, New Jersey, and earned an English professional writing degree with a minor in mass communications from King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. She also earned a certificate in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers Business School. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228.
