Choosing to Volunteer

Larry Sands knows people and he knows his community. The retired Medford Fire Chief worked for the city for 32 years. Retired now for four years, Larry hasn't exactly disappeared into the past. Instead he's volunteering his time for several organizations, including Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES).

"I've always felt that when a person has time, he or she should dedicate part of that time to helping other people," Larry said recently at his home Medford. "It's about giving back."

And, Larry Sands doesn't just talk a good game—he's also a heck of a player. Each first and third Monday of the month, Larry serves as a volunteer SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Elders) counselor at the Medford Council on Aging. The SHINE program is run by MVES and has trained counselors in 21 communities in this region. Larry volunteers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and helps elders understand the complex and fast-changing world of health insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs, managed care, and prescription drug coverage.

Larry has been a SHINE volunteer for two years, but his volunteerism doesn't stop there. He and wife Janet recently participated in MVES' Project S.A.F.E., an ongoing effort to establish contact with isolated elders in the community. Larry also gives several different tours of Boston for the organization Boston By Foot, a non-profit that exposes the public to the rich heritage of the city through walking tours.

"I think many people want to volunteer but they don't because they're afraid of the unknown…they're afraid they may not know enough," Larry said. He indicated that a good mentor, such as SHINE Program Coordinator Susan Cripps, can easily close up any knowledge gaps or clarify any uncertainty.

And knowing you've helped someone is fun. In the fall, Larry began taking his dog, Bentley, with him to SHINE appointments. "He's outgoing and people like him," said Larry. "He helps break the ice."

When asked how why he choose Bentley as a name for the dog, Larry quickly answered, "I couldn't afford a Rolls Royce." Clearly, Larry has a wonderful sense of humor which is surely a great asset in his work.

For more information about volunteering for MVES, please contact Kristin Murphy at 781-324-7705.