Sacred Heart Home Employees Honored in Leading Age New York Art Competition

The 2024 Leading Age New York Conference Art Exhibit Competition received 226 pieces from 46 member facilities form across the state. Michelle Vandervoort and Raymond Milkowski, Sacred Heart Home employees, had their submitted artwork chosen to be part of the top 70 that make up the traveling exhibit for the rest of year year. Michelle also received an Honorable Mention award for the competition! The exhibit was first unveiled at the May Leading Age New York Conference in Saratoga Springs. It will also be displayed at a fall conference.

Congratulations to Michelle and Ray for having their original works recognized in this statewide competition!

Michelle has worked in Dining Services for eight months. She previously worked in a corporate environment for more than 20 years. She loves working with the Sacred Heart Home residents and is very patient and accommodating to their needs. She lives in Clarence and is raising her granddaughter. She loves doing art in her spare time along with her granddaughter. They are members of the Clarence Chamber of Commerce. Her submitted painting, called “Washed Ashore” is a reflection of her love of the beach. It is a mixed-medium piece with a combination of acrylic paint, glitter, old costume jewelry and sea glass from Lake Erie beaches.

Ray has worked at Sacred Heart Home for two years and two months as an Enrichment Aide. He is very flexible and versatile in his role with Memory Care and Assisted Living. He enjoys the variety of serving both populations. He is a Eucharistic Minister and does Communion for residents. He is extremely dedicated to the residents and is always looking for ways to enrich their lives!

Ray’s perspective on his photography:

“Photography has been a passion of mine since I received my first camera as a wedding gift from my mother-in-law. What began as a hobby quickly turned into a fulfilling career. For many years, I worked as a school photographer, capturing the milestones of graduating seniors. This experience honed my skills in portrait photography and allowed me to develop a keen eye for details and emotion. I have also freelanced as a wedding photographer, immortalizing the joyous moments of countless couples on their special day. Additionally, I have had the privilege of being a family photographer, documenting various events and the growth of children over the years. My love for travel has taken me to the beautiful parts of the world, where I have captured stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures.”