After almost 24 years of dedicated service to the most vulnerable in the community, Tony DeSantis worked his final day at Community Living Essex County (CLEC) and was celebrated by clients, co-workers, friends and family.
The fitting send-off happened on Friday, April 10 at the CLEC office in Essex and featured a baseball-themed celebration including speeches, tributes, cake and a video that would have you laughing at one moment and crying the next.
CLEC Executive Director Corey Dalgleish listed off the numerous things that Tony had been a big part of, including Apple Fest, Jingle Bell Run, Mayor’s Luncheon and the annual golf tournament.
“These weren’t just events, these were home games,” said Dalgleish as he followed the baseball theme. “And like any true franchise player, this is where you shone the brightest. Time after time when your number was called, you delivered.”
“You’ve been a dedicated professional, but it’s been the personal gifts you’ve given so freely, that have made a lasting impact,” Dalgleish added.
DeSantis took the podium, presumably for one last time and talked about his co-workers, clients, family and friends and how much he appreciated each and every one of them.
“Looking around the room today, I have to say I feel incredibly lucky,” he said. “To be surrounded by colleagues, friends, volunteers and family really means the world to me.”
DeSantis talked about his years as CLEC’s Community Relations and Resource Development and how far the organization has come.
“When I started with Community Living almost 24 years ago, I thought I was just stepping into a job,” he said. “What I didn’t realize at the time, was that I was stepping into something that would shape my life in ways I never expected. This job became my purpose.”
He talked about the volunteers, clients and colleagues he met along the way. Volunteers such as Ron Hicks and Bob Blair were particularly instrumental in shaping DeSantis’ work and also acknowledged his connection to the Colasanti family through all of their work with CLEC over the years.
After reminiscing about his late parents and their connection to the Apple Fest, he thanked his wife, JoAnne, and kids, Thomas, Danica and Jessica, who have also been a big part of his journey with CLEC.
“While I’m retiring, I’m not disappearing, it’ll just be easier to find me,” he said. “Thank you for the memories, laughter and challenges and the incredible privilege of being part of something that really matters.”
DeSantis plans to continue being involved by volunteering his time with the organization’s key events.
