Maria McCormick honored for 20 years of service

On May 10, The Shelter honored retiring Options Shoppe Manager Maria McCormick with a plaque near The Shelter’s Butterfly Bench. Maria served The Shelter Options Shoppe for over 20 years.

A native of the Philippines, Maria moved to Naples in 1992. She came to Options as a volunteer in 1997 and became an employee that same year. During her time with Options, Maria has led the staff, volunteers and facility through several renovations and improvements, most recently a new name and branding as well as several physical upgrades to the store. She is a role model to the store’s 175 volunteer and paid staff.

“Maria is an outstanding individual and has been an exemplary manager of the Options team,” says Shelter Executive Director Linda Oberhaus. “While we are sad that she will be leaving our family, we are also happy and excited that she will have more time to spend with her own family.”

With a degree in geodetic engineering, it is no surprise that Maria loves hiking, especially along the Appalachian Trail with her husband Bill and her dog Buddy. With her retirement, she hopes to enjoy more time and adventures with both of them. We wish her good health and much fun in her travels.