Be An Angel Day Embraced by Maleno
Maleno Property Management Team Volunteers at Erie City Mission
In the spirit of National Be An Angel Day, the Maleno Property Management team came together to volunteer at the Erie City Mission, reflecting their long-standing commitment to giving back to the community. This annual observance encourages acts of kindness and service, and for Maleno and its employees, it was the perfect opportunity to embody their values of compassion and community support.
A Tradition of Giving Back
Maleno has a deep-rooted tradition of extending a helping hand to those in need. This legacy of service is woven into the fabric of the company, with employees regularly participating in various charitable activities throughout the year. National Be An Angel Day provided the ideal occasion for the Maleno team to demonstrate their commitment to Erie’s residents by volunteering their time and skills at the Erie City Mission.
A Day of Service
On this day, the staff from the apartment rentals side of Maleno’s business eagerly rolled up their sleeves to assist in the kitchen at the Erie City Mission. Tasked with chopping vegetables, setting up dinner rolls, and plating desserts, the team was instrumental in preparing the daily lunch service. Their efforts culminated in manning the serving lines, where they delivered healthy and delicious meals to the Mission’s guests, followed by cleaning the hall afterwards.
The Erie City Mission serves breakfast and lunch free of charge every day of the year, with the exception of two holidays, to hundreds of men, women, and children in need. The meals are served in the Hagen Hall dining room, located at 1017 French Street in Erie, PA. For many of the guests, these meals are a vital source of nourishment and a moment of relief in their daily struggles.
Working Alongside the Mission’s Dedicated Team
The Maleno team was guided by Chef Eli and his sous chefs, Mike and Bobby, who have dedicated themselves to the Mission’s kitchen. Under their supervision, the volunteers quickly fell into a rhythm, creating a friendly and efficient environment in which everyone could thrive. The Maleno employees were struck by the professionalism and dedication of the Mission’s kitchen staff, who ensure that every meal is prepared and served with care.
President & CEO Brian Johnsson made a special visit during the day to express his appreciation for the team’s efforts. His presence was a reminder of the importance of leadership and engagement in community service. As he spoke with the volunteers, he emphasized how crucial their work was not just for the Mission’s guests, but for the Erie community as a whole.
A Personal Commitment to Service
Natalie Washburn, Owner/Broker of Maleno Real Estate & Property Management, has a personal connection to the Mission. Serving on the Board of the Erie City Mission, she has seen firsthand the impact that the organization has on the lives of those it serves. Her dedication to the Mission is a reflection of her broader commitment to the Erie community.
“Serving at the Erie City Mission is a humbling experience that reminds us all of the strength and resilience of our community,” said Washburn. “I’m proud to be a part of this organization, and it’s important to me that our team at Maleno also has the opportunity to give back. By working together to serve those in need, we strengthen the bonds within our team and with the community we love.”
A Humbling Experience
For the Maleno Property Management team, the day was one of reflection and gratitude. The experience of serving others brought home the reality of the challenges faced by many in the Erie community. As they interacted with the Mission’s guests, the volunteers realized that they had gained as much, if not more, than they had given.
“We went in thinking we were the ‘angels,’” one team member noted, “but we discovered that the true angels are those who walk amongst us on the streets of Erie.”
The experience was a powerful reminder that the spirit of giving is not just about providing material support, but also about connecting with others on a human level. The team left the Erie City Mission with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the work being done by organizations like the Mission.
Continuing the Legacy
As Maleno continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to the Erie community remains steadfast. Volunteering at the Erie City Mission is just one of the many ways that Maleno and its employees strive to make a positive impact. Whether through hands-on service, financial support, or simply spreading kindness, the company is dedicated to building a stronger, more compassionate community.
National Be An Angel Day was a reminder that each of us has the power to make a difference. The Maleno Property Management team’s day of service at the Erie City Mission exemplifies the company’s belief that by working together, we can create a brighter future for all.
As the team reflects on their experience, they are more committed than ever to continuing their tradition of giving back, walking the talk, and being true angels in their community.
