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As a resident of Dedham for over 26 years, Clarissa Woodman believes in helping people for two area nonprofits.

At Stone Rehabilitation & Senior Living, Clarissa has greeted families and guests since 2002. In her role as Administrative Assistant/Receptionist, Clarissa’s professional yet personable manner creates a wonderful “first impression.” In-person and on the phone, Clarissa puts everyone at ease while making sure the day-to-day interactions at the non-profit organization run smoothly. Not an easy feat!

After hours, Clarissa can be found volunteering one to two nights a week at yet another non-profit: The Animal Rescue League of Boston’s adoption center in Dedham. The shelter, located on a 27-acre property, takes care of a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, steer, goats, ducks, mice, roosters, pigs and even lamas. Clarissa has been a volunteer for over 13 years.

At Stone, Clarissa was originally hired for the HR department, but soon gravitated towards the reception department.

“I like talking to people so this is the perfect position for me,” explained Clarissa. “Plus, I truly enjoy our residents and staff. It’s rewarding to help people.”

One of her favorite parts of her job is delivering flowers, cards, and packages to residents, “It’s magical to see their faces light up,” said Clarissa. “You can’t help but smile and feel good.”

Ed Blake, Executive Director at Stone Rehabilitation & Senior Living, noted that Clarissa always goes one step above.

“Although Clarissa’s official title is receptionist, she is so much more than that. In addition to greeting everyone with a hello and genuine smile, Clarissa makes everyone feel welcome and respected as an individual.” Added Blake, “I, like so many others, could not imagine our community without her warm and heartfelt presence.”

After talking on the phone all day, Clarissa looks forward to relaxing in the barn with the animals at the shelter. “They are so expressive and actually quite talkative,” said Clarissa. One mixed breed dog at the shelter stands out in Clarissa’s mind. The friendly dog arrived at the Rescue League very happy but in need of training. Clarissa noted, “I worked with him for several weeks and then he was sent to the Brewster branch. We all really missed him.” About six months later Clarissa was surprised to see the dog’s photo on the front page of the local newspaper. He had been trained as a “narc” dog by the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit.

Growing up in Needham, Clarissa had a fondness for animals at a very young age. She has had numerous pets over the years. Sandalls, her beautiful Double Yellow Head Parrot, is now 36 years old.

“Sandalls’ vocabulary changes constantly,” says Clarissa. “And you never know what he is going to say!”

On the nights Clarissa doesn’t volunteer at the shelter, she can often be found at the gym.

“I like to keep busy,” said Clarissa with a smile.

It’s obvious she enjoys taking care of people and animals.

Fortunately for the residents of Stone Rehabilitation & Senior Living and the animals at the Animal Rescue League, Clarissa Woodman is very good at her job!

About Stone Rehabilitation & Senior Living: Stone Rehabilitation & Senior Living features a Skilled Nursing Center for short-term rehab and long- term care, offering post-surgical care, hospice related services, respite care, pain management and orthopedic rehabilitation. The Pettee House, a retirement community for those who need support beyond assisted living, provides services to residents in the Greater Boston area. The organization is an affiliate of Legacy Lifecare.