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A True Servant Leader

For nearly 38 years, Dick Grillo has looked for meaningful ways to serve Advent Christian Village and the surrounding communities. In 1982, Dick Grillo and his wife Angie accepted the invitation to move to Dowling Park and join the staff. Dick Grillo came on board as the Director of Retirement Living in 1982. His priority in this position was to manage ACV’s HUD facilities and a grant program called Community Care for the elderly. During this time he also served as the transportation specialist helping select and purchase Village vehicles, oversaw the Admissions Office, and all aspects of life at ACV.

From the beginning, Dick went above and beyond his job description, working behind the scenes in a variety of areas at ACV and across the region. In his years of humble service, he managed to minister to thousands of individuals with the help of music. Trained in classical guitar, Dick shared his talents in worship services, served as entertainment during events, offered a calming presence on the bedside of residents, and many areas in between. His faithful service represents his love for the Lord and for the people of ACV.

Many are unaware of the countless hours and areas Dick puts into ministry. One area includes the establishment of a relationship with The ARC of North Florida. He established a weekly program for a group of adults with developmental disabilities to come and experience an hour of music therapy. This hour consists of songs and music from their childhood and often helped trigger lovely memories of their past. The amount of growth and impact these attendees have made during their time with Dick is incredible.

Amongst all of the duties, volunteering, and service-oriented ministry Dick takes part in, he managed to initiate and lead ACV’s Artist Series “Live! at Dowling Park” as well. For over 30 years, he has played a major role in coordinating the event, booking artists, planning the season, hosting the performers, and promoting the series. The concerts are some of the most highly anticipated events each year at ACV.

In 2006, Dick’s role shifted and he entered into his more recent position as the Senior Director of Community and Church Outreach. He visited churches and senior groups in the area, as well as served on local committees like the Suwannee County Tourist Development Council and represented ACV in Kiwanis and other venues.

At the end of June, Dick officially retired from ACV but we are certain we will still see him on campus. He is active in the Village Church and participates in many areas of ministry in the region. Eager to express Christ’s love, Dick’s heart is overflowing with ways to minister and serve others. He is truly the embodiment of a servant leader and has expressed Christ’s love continually at ACV by putting the needs of others above his own in Christ’s name. Dick has been a great leader, servant, helper, and friend, and we wish him an enjoyable retirement!

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