ASHLAND — The sincerity in his voice was evident as Zane Ries, an AU freshman from Barberton, Ohio, said, “We like to give back to the community—especially for an organization like this one that does so much to help others. It’s our chance to help you.”
Thirteen members of the Ashland University football team, along with Coach Lee Owens, took a break from practice to do yardwork at Hospice of North Central Ohio (HNCO)’s headquarters on Dauch Drive. The team trimmed bushes and trees, edged beds, pulled weeds and hauled away clippings.
The work team included Grant Denbow, Dawson Riley, Colton Paul, Ryan Corkrean, Zane Ries, Garrett Turnbaugh, CJ Wiley, Tyler Tokos, Alex Maxin, Trey Madison, Kimbal Nesbitt, Sam Puthoff, Scott Valentine and Coach Lee Owens from Ashland University. HNCO employees Ralph Tomassi, Dana Pore, Randy Huff, Jennifer Abbruzzese, Lanie Roberts and Deb Harris helped with the work day.
Denbow, an Ashland native, said, “Growing up here, I had opportunities like this through National Honor Society at Ashland High School. Now through AU football, I’m glad I can continue to give back locally.” Denbow is a wide receiver on the team.
“Ashland is so supportive of our football program,” added Coach Owens. “Many residents come to the games; local churches provide delicious meals for the players. When we have the chance, we like to support the community, too.”
HNCO’s Chief Development Officer Ralph Tomassi was pleased with the cooperative effort. He said, “It’s wonderful to have a college coach who believes in and encourages his kids to engage in community service.”
Hospice of North Central Ohio serves 200 patients daily in Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Morrow, and Richland counties with palliative and hospice services. Additionally, free continuous bereavement support is provided to hundreds of families of hospice patients and to anyone in the community experiencing grief. Call 800-952-2207 for more information. HNCO is a community partner of United Way.
