As we celebrate National Volunteer Month in April, it’s fitting to shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals who form the lifeblood of our organization. At the Council on Aging for Henderson County, volunteers play an indispensable role in fulfilling our mission to enhance the well-being of seniors in our community.
Last fiscal year we had over 250 volunteers donate nearly 20,000 hours of their time to helping seniors in our community. Their efforts extend far beyond mere assistance; they are strategic partners in optimizing our resources and expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of our senior population. When calculated by Independent Sector’s value of volunteer time, the efforts of these individuals saved over $500,000 in labor costs. Our volunteers are vital to the operation of our thrift stores especially, which account for nearly a quarter of our organization’s revenue.
The benefits of our volunteers go far beyond our organization’s capacity to serve. Volunteering, especially for seniors, offers a plethora of benefits for the volunteers themselves. Volunteering promotes physical health by encouraging seniors to stay active and engaged in their communities. Whether it’s through physical tasks or social interactions, volunteering often involves movement and socialization, which are essential for maintaining physical and cognitive vitality as individuals age. Studies have shown that seniors who volunteer regularly experience lower rates of depression and better overall health outcomes compared to their peers who do not volunteer.
A couple that beautifully embodies how helping others can be a way of helping yourself is our own Mike and Linda. Mike and Linda embarked on their journey as volunteers with our Meals on Wheels program five years ago, inspired by the heartfelt account of a friend who had previously volunteered. This dynamic husband-wife duo approaches their volunteering with a deep sense of passion and purpose. For them, it’s not just about giving back; it’s about fulfilling their faith, staying active, and forging meaningful connections with both fellow volunteers and the clients they serve. Despite Linda’s battle with dementia, she finds solace and fulfillment in the simple yet impactful task of packing meals alongside Mike. We’re so grateful for their service and honored to be part of Linda’s support network as she endures an impairment that many of our clients also face.
As we reflect on the significance of National Volunteer Month, we express our heartfelt gratitude to our volunteers for their unwavering dedication and impact on the well-being of the seniors we serve. We invite our community to join us in honoring and celebrating the vital role of volunteers during National Volunteer Month and beyond. Together, let us recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of these remarkable individuals who make a difference in the lives of seniors every day.
