Covenant Village has established the “It’s the Real Deal” Award to recognize volunteerism at Covenant Village.

The first award was presented to Covenant Village resident Gerald Deal on April 22, 2025, at the quarterly Resident Association meeting.

“For decades, dedicated residents, family members, staff members, and Community friends have provided ‘above and beyond’ voluntary care and service to our Village community,” announced CEO Dale Melton to the Resident body gathered in the Assembly Room. “Today, we inaugurate a new tradition with the first public recognition for Outstanding and Committed Volunteerism—A Spirit of Servant Leadership through Volunteerism—at Covenant Village.”

In announcing the 2025 recipient, Melton highlighted Mr. Deal’s

• Dedication and relentless caregiving as a spouse
• Commitment to serving as a visitor, greeter, and friend to residents in the Health Center
• Frequent action of grabbing a leaf blower to assist the grounds team
• Membership (maybe inaugural membership) on the Grounds Committee
• Faithful maintenance of the Campus walking trails
• Dedication to the Rose Garden
• Service on the Resident Council

Future REAL DEAL Awards for Volunteer Service and Servant Leadership will be presented occasionally to residents, family members, Staff, or community friends who go above and beyond in their lives and on behalf of Covenant Village.