Every holiday season there are countless requests made by people looking for the ideal present.
But for the past 65 years Folts Homes in the village of Herkimer has been practicing a different kind of solicitation.
Started in 1943 when the facility first opened its doors to a handful of residents, the “Angel Appeal” is once again providing an opportunity to ensure elderly individuals receive the care they deserve, according to Linda Cardarelli, director of development.
Now serving 300 residents at various levels of care, the list of required services continues to grow.
A significant portion of the funds raised benefit the facility’s residents with Alzheimer’s disease, which Folts Homes specializes in, explained Cardarelli. Equipment is purchased to add to a sensory stimulation area, focusing on creating a relaxing experience through elements of scent, color and touch. 
In 2007 the drive raised just shy of $20,000, and this season’s goal is to surpass last year’s total, Cardarelli said.
A lot of the donations are made in honor or memory of a loved one, she added. And family members often want to convey good wishes or express thanks towards the staff which cares for residents.
Every donation is represented by an angel ornament on the “Holiday Blessing Tree” displayed at Folts Homes.
Each year a chairman is selected to represent and promote the drive.
2008 Chairwoman Anne Marvin on Thursday met with 2007 co-chairs Donna and Henry Testa.
Donna Testa offered one major piece of advice, “Enjoy it. The community really comes out.”
Marvin is particularly suited to serve in the position as a member of the Folts Foundation, similar to last year’s chairmen. However, she joined during the inception in 1956.
Marvin also has a in-house understanding, having recently moved into the independent living apartments at the facility.
“I’m so impressed seeing the inside, the inner-workings,” Marvin said. “Caring staff doesn’t begin to express what they truly are. I don’t know how they do it.”
“My whole life I’ve been very involved in working with volunteers, training volunteers. It just comes natural,” she added, referring to time spent as a director of the Mohawk Valley Chapter of the Red Cross.
Marvin joked, “I was very bored when I first move in here, and I made the mistake of saying so. They have really given me many opportunities to continue helping.”
This year’s “Angel Appeal” appears to be under quite capable stewardship.
“I like hands-on things. I’m constantly out with the residents, especially those with Dementia and Alzheimer’s...I love to touch and smile and chat..”