Local Volunteer Devotes Herself To Bettering The Mansfield Community

Local leaders play a vital role in strengthening and bettering our communities. And here, we’re spotlighting a valuable member of the Mansfield-Storrs community — Joan Doiron, who has lent her time and talents to the area since moving to Connecticut in 1978. Among her many accolades, Doiron was honored with the 2022 Mansfield Senior Center Volunteer of the Year Award.

We spoke with Doiron to learn more about her local leadership and volunteer work, as well as what she loves most about being part of the Mansfield-Storrs community.

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

Patch: How long have you lived in the Mansfield-Storrs area, and what groups have you been involved with since moving here?

Doiron: I moved to Connecticut from Pennsylvania in 1978 when I was hired at E.O. Smith High School as a teacher and coach. Since retiring in 2010, I continue to help with programs at E.O. Smith High School.

I have been active with a lot of groups over the years, including the Mansfield Senior Center, and St. Mark's Episcopal Church, where we volunteer for The Covenant Soup Kitchen and WAIM, as well as support UConn students. I recently retired from The American Red Cross and Mansfield/Tolland Special Olympics. For many years, I was on the planning committee and even co-chaired the Windham Area American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

In addition, I have my certification to perform music in Connecticut prisons and at Natchaug Hospital. I have been part of Choir Matrix, a local singing group, and HeartSong, an acapella group that visited and performed for lonely, ill and hospice patients.

E.O. Smith High School became a part of my family. My church became a part of my family. Special Olympics became a part of my family. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life became a part of my family. Every group that I have been a part of over the years is an extension of my family.

Patch: You’ve been recognized as the 2022 Mansfield Senior Center Volunteer of the Year. What programs and events do you help with there?

Doiron: I spend a lot of time volunteering at the Mansfield Senior Center, serving meals, setting up and helping run programs — like Wii Bowling, Talent Shows, helping to organize our MSC Chorus, packing and delivering Meals on Wheels, working in our garden — anything that is needed. I also help man tables for events like UConn student welcoming events, Steeple Chase, and Celebrate Mansfield. We're like a big family, supporting one another in our good times as well as tough times.

Patch: What do you love most about being part of the Mansfield community?

Doiron: The fact that we are truly a community, supporting one another and helping others recognize their talents and sense of worth. Everyone has a purpose and a gift to share no matter what your age or your health status.

Additionally, Mansfield offers so much for EVERYONE in the community. There are so many social services, support groups and opportunities for fun and friendship. We have volunteer drivers that can get you to appointments and take you shopping. There are lots of activities and opportunities not only to help you live, but to also help you experience independence, life and self worth.

Patch: Is there anything else you'd like Patch readers to know about the Mansfield Senior Center and your other volunteer initiatives?

Doiron: The Mansfield Senior Center positively impacts the lives of people of all ages because we are more than just our own age. There are numerous types of volunteer opportunities available for people who want to make a difference in helping to instill dignity, self-worth and a passion for enjoying life.

WAIM and the Covenant Soup Kitchen are vital for so many people in need. Special Olympians are my inspiration and my heroes. Support the ministries of all of the churches in our area and be a part of their ministries.

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