Thanks, Tupp! Was patting myself on the back so hard it's a wonder I still have shoulder blades.
The Pres of our "Village" startup I met, along with five others, not long before the pandemic. Went to two meetings before it hit. I had learned about the idea of helping elders who: don't want to or can't move to a "retirement community" -- helping them live at home for as long as possible with a strong network of volunteers for all sorts of things. Rides to the doctor (accompanying them in to take notes if requested), small home chores or repairs, help with computers or electronic devices -- thinning a flower bed or walking a dog for that matter. Changing overhead light bulbs was one somebody came up with. Whatever they need, if a volunteer can match it, they'll have the visit/connection/friendship etc with a caring person who wants to help them age at home more easily. Only NON-medical services from background-checked, trained volunteers. Probably most of our volunteers will be older but quite able, but the range for joining as members is 55+. When we interview prospective volunteers, we ask what possible services we could list. Some can drive but not lift, some love to help organize, some are bilingual, some are very comfortable with electronics, or dogs. All depends on who decides to join. Each member request for service will be matched against our volunteers' skills and availability.
It's been really successful -- 300 Villages so far. It's just a huge need. Too many elders who live in the community (rather than a "senior silo") are isolated, too many have no family to help them, etc etc. There's been a lot of national research on it and the gap in support is clear -- as is the difference it makes to all involved.
The original small group of folks I met had splintered during the pandemic: one's spouse was declining, others were just burned out. It's a LOT of work. But one, our Pres, revived it all about two years ago and I climbed on board when she asked me. I had loved the concept the moment I heard of it (perfect demographic myself) and she is amazing. Long career as a national leader in midwifery, setting up professional programs in two countries, still on accreditation and review boards. Remarkable woman. I find it fascinating that she built structures to support people in community for the start of life, and now she's doing the same for people in the later chapters.
We've grown to an 8-member Board (moi included) and are launching the volunteer and member drive now, with publicity, public information sessions, and the brochures and flyers. Media is interested, and we have an excellent Advisory Board: Dr.-head of geriatrics and a lovely woman in a high post in nursing at the university hospital, former CFO of the whole region's largest senior services board, present CEO of the same, and a few more. A med student organization is interested, likewise a nursing student program -- not in giving medical services, but just volunteering like everybody in order to get to know the needs of older people living in the community. (They'll learn about needed health services for their public health work and from visiting older folks in their own homes.)
We'll find out when we find out, but I have a feeling it'll take off here. ML, the Pres, is indefatigable, can multi-task like a maniac, and I can keep cranking out friendly, clear PR and documentation etc. She asks me to do small speeches with her because she's a PhD Power Point sort, very skilled at presenting data, and I'm just all passionate about how this society values or discards elders. Plus, I'm a perky public speaker and for some reason audiences warm to me. Must be the dimples, or sometimes I'm funny.
Whew. Gotta try to help THIS old woman get her laundry done!
hugs
Hops
