Why Volunteer?

"One of my clients, who lives alone, has to cope with several challenges, including very poor vision and hearing. When her hearing aid battery died, she called me. I was able to go to the store right away. You should have seen her smile when she put the new battery in and could hear again. I knew I had made her day, and that made my day, too." - A Neighbor to Neighbor Volunteer

"Sure, I'm for helping the elderly. I'm going to be old myself someday."- Lillian Carter, spoken when she was in her eighties

Statistics show that if you're 65 today, you have a good chance to live well into your eighties; in other words, to become "elderly." Perhaps you have family members close by who will be able to take care of all your needs.

But what if you don't? Who will you rely on?

National statistics show that, on average, women live 11 more years after they give up driving, and men, an additional six years. That's a long time to rely on someone else for transportation.  Nemaha County is fortunate to have a Handibus service, but it is not adequate to meet all demands. Neighbor to Neighbor volunteers help fill the gap by taking seniors who no longer drive to medical appointments and for local shopping and errands. Volunteers also may provide light housekeeping, minor home repair, occasional yard work, and respite care.

But it's not all about the elderly. People who enrich the lives of others through volunteering help themselves as well.

Studies show that older volunteers find physical and mental health benefits through volunteering. Two studies found that the volunteering threshold is about 100 hours per year, or only about two hours a week. Individuals who reached the threshold enjoyed significant health benefits.  You can be matched with a senior citizen for regular assistance or simply on an as-needed and as-available basis for occasional help.  Neighbor to Neighbor volunteers receive mileage reimbursement and may be eligible for a small hourly stipend. Excess automobile and personal liability insurance as well as excess medical insurance is also provided.

Aging, no doubt, brings challenges, but it can also bring joy, for both the elderly and for caring volunteers. Please consider calling Neighbor to Neighbor today to find out how you can "share the challenge and share the joy" of helping senior citizens in our community.

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