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Sharna Nicholson & the Mary Kay “Adopt a Grandparent” Program

The following is from Sharna Berzin Nicholson, a Mary Kay Cosmetics independent beauty consultant who sponsors and organizes the Adopt a Grandparent Program at San Simeon by the Sound.

Ten years ago, I had a near fatal accident, but I was blessed and healed. I like to believe that it was a turning point in my life, realizing that we never have control, just choices! My choice was to find a way to give back to others by sharing my time, energy and friendship at a local nursing home in upstate NY. I learned of a Mary Kay company program called “Adopt a Grandparent” and was excited to find a way to give back during the holidays to those that might not otherwise receive a visitor or gift from a friend or family member.

Sharna Berzin Nicholson
Adopt a Grandparent gifts

“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey Hepburn

The gist of the program is that Mary Kay Independent Consultant ask for ‘sponsors’ to make a small donation to cover the cost for a gift package, along with a tag including their first name, and I then deliver these to a senior facility. Over the years, I have offered a choice of 1) gloves with hand cream, or 2) non-skid socks with a mint leg lotion.

When I moved to the North Fork 6 years ago, a fellow consultant introduced me to the Recreation Director at San Simeon, JoAnn Termini-Pira. I have loved volunteering here, pampering day visitors and residents alike. When I sent out a letter about the Adopt a Grandparent program several years ago, I was delighted by the reception I received. Not only my friends, family and customers have joined me in sharing this holiday tradition, but total strangers have mailed me checks and asked to be included.

We live in a most unusual and special community on the North Fork of Long Island. I am blessed to be able to be reminded daily that Giving is Contagious. The “pay it forward” idea isn’t a myth, it’s a fact. When people experience a generous kindness, they’re more apt to treat others with the same sort of benevolence. We all could use this reminder as we begin 2019.

Happy New Year!

Sharna

If you would like to learn more about Sharna you can view her profile on the Mary Kay website.

If you would like to find out how you can be a part of the Adopt a Grandparent program, please contact us.

 
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