FROM MEMBERS

• Just want to thank you and the other volunteers who did the birthday do today. It really was very special, and all the effort that went into it was surprising. Most of all, it was surprising to even be given gifts. That was special. While I am blessed now with a loving husband who treats birthdays like it is Christmas, there were times in the past when I was alone on birthdays and had no gift. I can imagine there might have been one or more people in that room today or at the other birthday lunches that have no one in their lives giving them a birthday gift. It was also fun to get to know three new people, and especially fun for my husband to have someone to speak Spanish with him. It is a passion of his life, and before another member sat down, I could tell that he felt sort of "I wish I were home." (PS)

• "We wish to thank the Village very much for the wonderful basket we found at our door this evening. At this stage of our life, these little things mean a lot." (F&P H)

• "I wanted to express my gratitude to the Village for the wonderful, thorough and completed job that Helping Hands did for me. The Volunteers came to my home exactly on time to turn my mattress and install a new kitchen TV. They were so thorough, efficient, friendly and completed the job checking the work. I so appreciate the service since they saved me $200 for what I would have been charged by Best Buy. We are very fortunate to have the Village with volunteers who give of their talents and time with a smile, great spirit." (EG)

• I just wanted to thank everyone involved in putting together the June 2019 birthday luncheon. It was my first time at this event and I was really impressed with the get-together. Thanks to all - it was obvious that everyone was enjoying themselves. Please pass on to all involved my appreciation for all of the work that went into the event." (DZ)

• I just finished three loads of wash, made the bed and have done some sketching while [my husband] was gone for his blood test. Thank you, thank you, thank you for giving me my life back. I can never repay [your volunteer] and Senior Village. (PL)

• "I called Senior Village recently to see if you had a volunteer who could straighten out the mess with my garage door openers. This involved 2 outside key pads and 2 remotes. [Your volunteer] was here yesterday and what he did exceeded all expectations. First, he got the remotes working as they should. When it came to the outside key pads he had a problem because they are old and I had no operating manual to help him. At that point I resigned myself to the fact that we would have to make do with just the inside key pads. That would have been OK. But, unknown to me at the time, [your volunteer] went home and was able to find instructions for the old key pads on the internet. He came back in an hour or so and now the whole system works like new. That was great service. My sincere thanks to [your volunteer] and Senior Village. We are so happy that we became members. Thanks again." (G&L B)

• Senior Village makes life easier.  You can get help when you need it. The volunteers are very friendly and respond immediately.  Every single person who has come has been helpful and effective.  I really like the people.  When we meet, we have a good time. One day you will need them, and they will be there for you.” (DV)

• Senior Village makes it possible to stay in my home.  I know where all the switches are.  I can do my cooking.  I think my daughter was relieved, too, when I found Senior Village. They take good care of me.  I feel guilty sometimes.  I’m not used to being waited on.  I used to do all that myself.  The volunteers call me by my first name.  It makes me feel like we’re friends and they know me.  I enjoy the company of the drivers.  I’m so happy to have someone to talk to.  I get lonely." (LW)

From Volunteers

• “The best job is the one you don’t get paid for.  I was so glad when the Village got started because this is what I’ve been looking for. I love hearing the stories people tell about their lives.  Their eyes light up and they get excited when telling their stories.  A driver needs to be a good listener as long as it doesn’t interfere with driving."

  "People have a sense that they don’t want to bother their neighbors.  I just want people to know that this is what we want to do.  We’re here because we want to help somebody, and it’s their turn to be helped." "I want to ‘Pay It Forward’, like in the movie.  Someday I will need these services.  Now it’s my turn to help.  I make time for the things I want to do, and driving for Senior Village is what I want to do.  It is truly a delightful experience.” (JB)

• “The best aspect about being on the dispatch team is helping members connect with volunteers who can meet their needs. I also like paying it forward so that, when the time comes, that I need Senior Village services, I can get the help and support I need.” (SC)

• “My volunteer experience with Senior Village is fulfilling in so many ways. I am proud to be part of an organization that helps people live their lives at home, with a little help from volunteers.  It's a small thing we do and the results are big for the members we help.  If you want a smile on your face and a happy feeling in your heart, I invite you to become a volunteer for Senior Village.” (JS)