Despite the August heat, volunteers were out in force across Washington County during the weekend of August 7–9 as the nonprofit Thomye Delle “Celebrate Our Seniors” programcontinued a tradition built around a simple idea: remembering and thanking the senior citizens who have spent much of their lives helping others.

​

Now in its 23rd year, Celebrate Our Seniors recognizes older residents of Brenham and surrounding Washington County communities whose lives reflect service, generosity and concern for their neighbors. Since 2005, the program has organized an annual celebration honoring seniors who have given freely of their time and talents, often without recognition and without expecting anything in return.

​

The weekend began Friday, August 7, when program co-founders and organizers Veronica Ferguson Maxie and Tre Maxie, joined by a group of volunteers, delivered bundles of personal-care packages to residents of area senior living and nursing facilities. Stops included High Hope Care Center, Brenham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Argent Court Assisted Living Center.

​

The effort moved into neighborhoods Saturday as volunteer teams began delivering more than 160 individual care packages to senior citizens living in private homes throughout Brenham, Burton, Chappell Hill and Washington. Each package was assembled with both practical needs and personal encouragement in mind. Seniors received items such as socks, hand lotion, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, toothbrushes, blankets, puzzles, coloring books and gift cards.

​

But tucked among those everyday necessities was something that carried no price tag — handmade greeting cards created by young people from the community. Those cards helped connect two generations and reminded recipients that their years of service and contributions have not been forgotten.

​

This year's observance also included special recognition of two Washington County residents whose lives have demonstrated the spirit Celebrate Our Seniors seeks to honor.

​

During worship services on July 26, Rosia “Rose” Telford Newsome was recognized for a lifetime of volunteer service with numerous organizations. On Sunday, August 9, Cheryl Sharp DaBera was honored for her many years of professional achievement and steadfast service throughout the Washington County area.  (Their records of service are portrayed in the Honorees - 2026 section of this website.)

​

The presentations offered an opportunity not simply to recognize accomplishments, but to say “thank you” while these community servants can hear it from the people whose lives they have touched.

​

For Veronica Maxie, the annual program remains both a community undertaking and a personal calling. She continues to thank God for giving her the opportunity and strength to lead the effort, and expresses her gratitude to the organizations, sponsors and volunteers whose generosity makes the program possible year after year.

​

Although the last care package has been delivered for this year's observance, the work does not end there. Celebrate Our Seniors is already turning its attention toward its 2027 program and another year of recognizing those who have spent their lives strengthening their families, churches and communities.