The Canton Town Board recognized the Society of the United Helpers who are celebrating their 125th anniversary at Wednesday night’s board meeting. From the left are United Helpers employees Tim Parsons, vice president of Human Services; Michelle Matthews, vice president of Human Resources; Jordan Downing-Duke, marketing manager; Todd Amo, chief executive officer; and Canton Town Supervisor Mary Ann Ashley, who presented a framed proclamation and white lilac tree. NCNow photo by Paul Mitchell.
BY PAUL MITCHELL
North Country This Week
CANTON – The Canton Town Board proclaimed Wednesday, May 10, as United Helpers Recognition Day in light of the Society’s 125th anniversary.
On hand were four members of the United Helpers leadership team, including Chief Executive Officer Todd Amo.
“We would like to thank the Town of Canton for this honor. While we haven’t been in Canton for 125 years, Canton serves as a home for many of our services today, including our nursing home, independent senior living, assisted living, physical and occupational therapy and behavioral health clinics,” stated United Helpers Vice President of Human Resources Michelle Matthews.
Town Supervisor Mary Ann Ashley read the proclamation.
“The vision that sparked the birth of the Society of the United Helpers began in the hearts of the people of St. Lawrence County,” read Ashley.
“In 1898 and the two decades preceding, a desperate need to house indigent children was identified. Answering the call for action were ten women who pledged $100 each to fund and establish a Home for the Homeless. This home was to provide care for orphaned children and destitute women. Ultimately setting the standard of care that later defined the Society of the United Helpers,” the proclamation continued.
Soon after, Ashley noted, twelve church women joined together to apply for a charter. They developed a constitution and bylaws, and the Society of the United Helpers was officially formed in April 1898….
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