Set Sail with Senior Services Volunteers

The dedicated volunteers at Senior Services log more than 500 hours each month helping older adults in our community. Last month, they also logged a few hours at sea, cruising the Elizabeth River in celebration of Volunteer Appreciation Day. Though the weather was brisk, everyone stayed warm with food, dancing, and good company.

Volunteers are crucial to the mission of Senior Services, allowing us to reach more older adults in need. They teach basic computer skills, deliver meals to our Better Together Cafés, teach health and fitness classes, assist at special events, perform office duties, and help with enrolling seniors in Medicare and changing prescription coverage.

“Our volunteers have the absolute best hearts,” said Jillian Lewis, who runs Senior Services’ volunteer program. “They are humble, helpful, reliable, and loyal to Senior Services and the people they serve.”

Volunteers at the celebration shared favorite memories from their time at Senior Services. Tanya said the highlight for her was “seeing the recipients of emergency food boxes light up with gratefulness.” Deborah loved interacting with the seniors at the wellness events at the Botanical Gardens. And Helen said she “enjoyed every minute” of her conversations with a 94-year-old woman who was mostly homebound.

Senior Services is always looking for more volunteers. Right now, we have a need in our Benefits Counseling department and in Healthwise, our technology coaching program. At Hayden Village Center in Franklin, we are looking for helpers in the socialization and recreation classes. Also, seniors who meet certain requirements may qualify to volunteer with our Senior Companions program.

“Volunteering has many wonderful benefits, not just for the organization being served, but for the individuals serving,” Jillian said. “We are so grateful that of all the volunteer opportunities out there, our volunteers have chosen Senior Services.”

To get started as a volunteer, call 757-461-9481 or visit our website: www.ssseva.org/volunteer.