When Ginger* retired from her nursing career in the late 1990’s, she joined ElderHelp’s volunteer team. She was matched with Gladys, and together they enjoyed trips around town, stopping at the grocery store or window shopping at the mall. Ginger reflects, “I remember taking Gladys shoe shopping for her birthday. She had received a little extra cash, and we were ready to celebrate. We bought the shoes and a cake and stopped for a fast food hamburger. It was a great day until it came time to cut the cake. There is no way to cut a cake at a fast food restaurant! It was pretty messy, but we managed. We sure did laugh about that, though.”
Fast forward to today and Ginger is now laughing with a volunteer match of her own. “I don’t drive anymore,” reflects Ginger, “but transportation was always one of my biggest projects. Seniors like their independence and ElderHelp’s volunteers provide it. Last week after Rachel took me to church, we stopped on the way home for a bunch of bananas. It’s little things like that that make such a difference. I just appreciate that she takes the time to help. ElderHelp was there when I wanted to lend a hand, and now they’re here for me when I need one.”