Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) works alongside more than 300 volunteers to support the independence and well-being of our older neighbors. Their commitment is admirable and their impact cannot be conveyed with just numbers; they are making lives better in our community, and they have our thanks.
National Volunteer Week runs from April 16-23. It’s a time to recognize the contributions of volunteers, how they build community and selflessly take on vital work for the greater good.
The honor roll of outstanding SCES volunteers could fill a small book, but here the highlights of what they contributed in our community over the last year:
Supporting Nutrition through more than 140 volunteers delivering Thanksgiving meals, monthly grocery supplements, and locally grown summer produce. Volunteers also help at meal sites and with distribution of Farmers Market Coupons. In all of these cases, they supported food security and helped reduce the risk of malnutrition.
SHINE Counselors provided free MassHealth and Medicare counseling for 233 older adults, helping them maintain and optimize their health care coverage.
Money Management volunteers helped more than 80 of our neighbors maintain independence by assisting with bank errands and routine tasks, such as reading mail and writing checks.
Helping with Appointments with friendly door-to-door Medical Escorts for outpatient procedures and Patient Advocates, who provide companionship and support during medical appointments.
Reducing Isolation through Caring Neighbor and Friendly Caller, and by our Technology Coaches helping older adults stay connected through technology.
On-Site Assistance with volunteers who help at our office and participate in our Advisory Council.
SCES celebrates these contributions and more with a volunteer recognition event each April, and it’s our pleasure to do so. Together, we accomplish so much more.
If you are interested in contributing as an SCES volunteer, visit the Volunteer Opportunities page under the Get Involved tab at eldercare.org. Or call 617-628-2601, x3214 or send an e-mail to vol@eldercare.org.
