Put Faith into Action in Mahoning County
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-10-23 12:32:00-04:00
This month, AARP Ohio spotlights our collaboration with Volunteer Service to Seniors—Faith in Action Program.
Someone in your neighborhood needs your help. Most Ohioans want to remain living at home as long as possible. Remaining independent often depends on the availability of services delivered at home or provided by the community. When the ability to drive, handle errands and perform household chores becomes limited, it can have a dramatic impact on an individual's sense of independence and daily life. That's where you can help.
AARP has joined hands with Volunteer Service to Seniors Faith in Action to make a difference in the lives of your neighbors in Mahoning and Trumbull Counties. Whether you have a few hours a month or a few hours a week, your time can help others maintain their independence.
Many frail elderly adults and people with disabilities in your area cannot manage routine activities that many of us take for granted. That's why AARP has joined Volunteer Service to Seniors Faith in Action to address this problem.
As part of the AARP team with this local community organization, you can participate in a wide range of volunteer opportunities like:
- Grocery shopping
- Running errands
- Escorted transportation to medical appointments
- Friendly visits
- Respite for family caregivers
- Office work
- Provide volunteer support
You can also work in the office or help recruit, train or schedule volunteers.
"The partnership between Faith in Action and AARP is such a natural fit," said program director Maureen Drummond. "The volunteers we receive through recruitment efforts have a strong commitment to helping people in the community remain independent. It is such a joy to witness the formation of lasting friendships that go beyond caregiver and care receiver."
In the past 22 years, over 500 volunteer caregivers have provided free services to frail elderly adults and people with long term healthcare needs in Mahoning and Trumbull Counties. The organization's ability to continue to provide services depends on the number of available volunteers. Most volunteers average about 2-4 hours of service each month. Whatever time you can devote is appreciated and significant to those you help.
As a volunteer, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped someone and made your community a better place to live. You will meet new friends who share your values of providing service to others in need. The neighbors you serve will know that they have someone to rely on, lessening the fear of losing their independence and providing peace of mind for families and caregivers who can't always be there.
Drummond adds, "When we ask volunteers and clients to identify the most beneficial aspect of the partnership, they all express profound appreciation for the friendship that develops and lasts beyond the need for service."
If you would like to help in your community by volunteering with Volunteer Service to Seniors Faith in Action, simply complete this online form and be sure to check the "Independent Living one-to-one service" box underneath the "Community Service" heading.
Volunteer Service to Seniors Faith in Action will work with you to provide a three hour training program and create a schedule that meets your needs and availability. Remember, all volunteers are welcome and needed, regardless of the amount of time you can give or the way in which you are able to serve.
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