Tom Dietvorst

Tom is retired clinical psychologist. He is a Dementia Champion and additionally offers talks on End-of-Life Planning and Stress Management. His current passion is non-dual spirituality. Why does he volunteer? Yup, you got it, another trite spiritual phrase: Every gift you give, you give to yourself.

Andy Teitelman



Andy is a musician and a recently retired Social Worker after 40+ years of social service work in the Chicago area. Andy started playing the guitar and singing at age 11 and has never stopped. Most recently Andy has brought together his two passions for music and social service work with seniors, in leading sing-alongs in senior centers and gatherings throughout the Chicago area, including regular appearances at the South Loop Village Memory Cafe.  Andy lives in Oak Park with his wife Nancy and together they enjoy doting on their grandchildren.

Dave Roen

I volunteer because I want to share the blessings that I have received, particularly as a musician. I have seen firsthand how music can heal hearts, minds and spirits and am fascinated by the positive impact of music on folks dealing with dementia.

Karen Cornell

I joined south loop Village to help start up a Memory Cafe. I live near Grant Park and love to walk around in the park and on the lake front

Tanvee Agrawal

Growing up, my parents were instrumental in the community and organized great events in my small town. The whole family would contribute and our weekends were spent with people of different ages and neighborhoods in marginalized communities. Volunteering has been instrumental in my personal growth and it is a big part of my life. Living halfway across the world from my parents, and continuing to volunteer gives me the satisfaction that I am carrying on their legacy. I believe in karma, so by giving to society here, I feel my parents' lives are touched by other volunteers near them. You can often find me cruising the streets with my mischievous toddler in and around South Loop. 

Vicki Reynolds

Volunteering is important to me, because I have met so many wonderful and interesting people. I often refer to myself as a “professional volunteer.” I have served with the Jr. League, schools, churches, YMCA, philharmonic and various other agencies.   To me, the Memory Café is both fun and heartwarming. I find personal enjoyment engaging with participants and supporting their connections with each other in various activities.

Andee Stacy

Andee is an occupational therapist with 30 years of experience. She greatly enjoys working with seniors, including those with dementia. Her father experienced dementia, so she has seen the impact on family members. It is an honor for her to be able to provide a bit of respite for those who are struggling to cope with the challenges of caring for someone they love.

Ruby Hoyem

Ruby is currently pursuing a Masters in Social Work with concentrations in health and gerontology and plans to pursue a career in aging and long-term care services. She lives in the suburbs and enjoys walking her dogs.

Sarah Jewett

Sarah started volunteering at the age of 10, working with older adults, and she found such a connection that she went on to work with this population. Combining her love of reading, writing, and fitness, she enjoys leading book discussions, facilitating writing/poetry workshops and coming up with creative ways for our older adults to work out. She feels she has learned most in her life from those who have decades of wisdom, emotion, and stories to share.

Genevieve Bernard



Haitian born Genevieve Bernard witnessed the violence and poverty experienced in her home country. Fast forward to her move to the US, these childhood memories lead her to a career as a Social Worker, compelled to help those in need. Now a volunteer she enjoys using her social work skills, meeting with people 'face to face' helping them navigate life's challenges.