Chylene P., 78, Hartford, CT

Chylene Pender, a resident of Hartford, Connecticut, had her wish to attend her high school reunion and visit her hometown one more time granted, thanks to our Connecticut chapter. Pender, 78, had her 60th high school reunion in her hometown of Clay Center, Kansas in late September, but could not afford the cost of travel on her own limited income. She has limited mobility so could not travel on her own either. Thanks to the Connecticut chapter, Pender and her grandson flew out to Kansas and stayed for the weekend to enjoy her reunion festivities. This trip also gave her the chance to visit her parents’ and grandparents’ graves one more time. Pender has been very involved in the community throughout her life. She is currently the Vice President of the GFWC Newington/Wethersfield Woman’s Club and has held various other positions, helping with nearly every fundraiser they have had. In addition, Pender ran the gift shop at Cedarcrest Hospital for eight years prior to its closing. She also volunteered as President of St. Mary’s in Newington for 19 years. She and her grandson flew out September 29th and spent the weekend in Clay Center. Connecticut chapter director, Andrea Hoisl,  honored Pender with a wish granting celebration at The Retreat on Tuesday, September 26th.