The Amazing Impact Volunteering Can Have

 

What do you see when you look at this picture? Just some guys hanging out together? What is really going on runs much deeper than that, you see healing.

Following a car accident Carlos quit his position as a Senior Companion. He said he was too traumatized and no longer wanted to drive. As a result, depression set in from lack of socialization and he knew this was not good. He maintained communication with the SCP program manager, Judy, and she encouraged him to return when he was ready, as driving is not a condition of the position.

As time passed, more seniors joined the Atwater Senior Center, and many of these new folks were men. Learning of this Carlos became curious to see it for himself. Once he saw for himself the need of some of these gentlemen he decided to return to his Senior Companion position. What he shared was that these newfound relationships have helped him heal from the trauma. WOW! Here is a Senior companion and his clients are helping him heal, Isn't that remarkable?

Often when individuals think of volunteering, they look at their position as a helper, someone who provides healing, and yet often we see just the opposite. Volunteers often report that the individual who was once referred to as a client is now a cherished friend, part of the family. 

Our programs and their volunteers greatly impact the lives of the individuals we serve, and vice versa.

Taking the time to ensure someone is comfortable is important. Diane, a Medical Chaperone, made sure her client, Richard, had somewhere to sit while waiting for the doctor's office to open. She searched the office building for a place where they could sit and wait. During their time together, Diane learned that Richard had just moved to Connecticut. He had lived overseas with his daughter until recently when they both returned to the US, and he chose to live near the shore. Upon returning to his residence, he told Diane that he would be telling his son, who lives in London, how grateful he was for the assistance and that it made him feel like he made the right choice moving here.

And then there is Awilda, who is also a Medical Chaperone. She was assisting a client who used a wheelchair. Upon arriving at the dentist's office, she and the van driver were shocked to see there was no ramp. Awilda, aware of the obvious concern on her client's face, went straight into the dentist's office and explained the situation. The dentist understood the issue and decided to treat the client in the van. Can you believe it? Awilda assured the client everything would be fine, and the dentist completed the visit without issue. Thanks to everyone that day for helping this client experience a successful appointment.