An Ozanam Award for an AMA

When Madeleine Zaehringer left her native Texas to be an Associate Missionary of the Assumption (AMA) in Worcester, MA, she knew that she'd have many surprising and unforgettable experiences during the year. Little did she know that among them would be receiving the Frederick Ozanam Award of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Worcester County!

Given yearly in honor of Frederick Ozanam, the founder of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the award goes to the volunteer who has distinguished herself in service to the aims and mission of the St. Vincent de Paul Society without being a member of the Society herself.

Since coming to Worcester in August, 2009, Madeleine has worked at the St. Vincent de Paul Society Thrift Store on Park Avenue once a week. Whenever there was a need, Madeleine was always there to lend a generous and loving hand.

This she did in addition to all her other commitments as an AMA: teaching English as a Second Language to adult immigrants, being a mentor and assistant coordinator in the St. Peter Mentoring program and Assumption Center Girls With DREAMS program, volunteering at the Family Health Center and Ecotarium, assisting with the Youth Group at St. Peter's - St. Andrew's Church, being a teacher's aide at Columbus Park School, etc., etc.

As if that weren't enough, Madeleine was unable to accept the award in person on April 25th because she was running in the Lehigh Valley Half Marathon on the same day! The marathon is a charity event that benefits Lehigh Valley Road Runners and Youth Running.

Madeleine, you are one extraordinary AMA and outstanding Ozanam Awardee. Congratulations and God bless you!