Congratulations to Lori Skalitzky, our November Volunteer of the Month!

At Bello Machre, we are deeply grateful for the kindness, dedication, and positive energy that Lori Skalitzky brings to our community.

“Lori is effervescence personified. She is often the first person to respond to a need, and no task is beneath her. She is an exceptional human being—everything you look for in a good person: kind, thoughtful, empathetic, and warm,” shares Jeremy Crowe, Manager of Development & Volunteer Engagement. “She is extremely witty, talented, and intelligent, but also very modest and encouraging of others. She’s someone you want in your corner and on your team. We are immensely grateful for her. She is truly a treasure!”

Lori holds a special place in the Bello Machre family, and our mission is equally close to her heart. Lori shares a heartfelt story of how her journey with Bello Machre began and how it shaped her passion for giving back:

“I love volunteering with Bello Machre and giving back to this amazing organization that has done so much for our family and for thousands of other families in our area. When our son, Connor, was first diagnosed with autism, we were struggling to determine what to do and how to do it. A friend introduced us to Bello Machre. Tracy Lynott came to our home and told us about what Bello Machre is and how they could help. Connor benefited from what is now known as the Ray of Hope Program, and we began participating in Every Step Counts. As Connor has grown up and thrived, we, as a family, have tried to give back through fundraising and offering our time and talents.”

One of the standout moments in Lori’s volunteering journey occurred in 2020, during the height of the global pandemic. In a time marked by uncertainty and fear, Lori chose to focus on giving back to the community—a meaningful effort that has since grown into a cherished tradition she carries on today.

“When the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown happened, I saw that Bello Machre was looking for volunteers to read via Zoom to our friends, who were now stuck at home. I suggested a weekly reading of a chapter book, and we began our Bello Machre Book Club with Rick Riordan’s The Lightning Thief. Eventually, the lockdowns eased, and services began to return to some semblance of normal. That’s when I started going directly to homes to read in person, and each home could choose its own book for us to enjoy. It is a joy to go into the homes and spend quality time with my friends!”

A source of Lori’s inspiration remains her dedication to helping others, no matter how big or small the task.

“I am blessed to have time to give. I call myself a ‘professional volunteer,’ giving my time to Bello Machre and my church. I actually enjoy the ‘boring’ tasks—folding letters, stuffing envelopes, sorting shirts. Helping out in the office makes me happy, but going to the homes to read is a true highlight of my week.”

Compassionate individuals like Lori are the heart of Bello Machre’s mission, playing a vital role in providing a lifetime of loving care, opportunities, and guidance for individuals with developmental disabilities across Maryland. Their kindness and dedication ensure that we can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we support.

“Bello Machre is a gift, providing absolutely necessary services and funding to families who need it most right here in our area. I am truly grateful to have the ability to be a very small part of this amazing organization.”

On behalf of everyone at Bello Machre, thank you, Lori, for your unwavering dedication. Your generosity means the world to us and to the individuals we support.