As we look back at 2018, we are amazed by the impact Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) Volunteers have had in our communities. With more than 20,000 hours served this year, our volunteers have shown their dedication and compassion in countless ways. The volunteer programs at MVES serve those most in need, while providing rewarding experiences for our remarkable volunteers.
In a recent survey, we asked volunteers about their favorite aspect of community service. We saw responses that focused overwhelmingly on the people they serve. Across all of the programs, so many of our volunteers love what they do because of the people they get to meet and the joy they feel by helping others.
As you embrace the New Year, you might think of making the New Year’s resolution to give back. Volunteering with MVES can be a rewarding experience and enables you to help individuals in your community.
If you’re ready to give back, MVES has a volunteer position for you. In 2019, we hope to offer one or two new opportunities, as well as continue the long-standing programs that impact so many.
Become more familiar with current volunteer programs at Mystic Valley Elder Services:
Money Management Volunteers help low-income elders and adults living with disabilities retain their independence by visiting them at home to assist them with bill-paying tasks. Money Managers are trained to provide direct support by assisting with organizing the consumer’s bills, preparation of checks, and balancing and maintaining the check register. This program may have options to volunteer in the evenings or on weekends.
Reading Partners serve as volunteer tutors in elementary school classrooms, helping students improve their literacy skills and develop a love of reading. Tutors work with students individually, in small groups, or as part of the classroom’s literacy block. With Reading Partners, you can utilize your personal skills and contribute towards a child’s success as a reader.
Food Pantry Volunteers help individuals secure the food they need, while ensuring a welcome and comfortable environment for participants. Volunteers unload boxes of donated food, staff food distribution tables, and greet and assist participants at the monthly weekday afternoon events.
Senior Dining Site Volunteers help people access nutritious food and opportunities to engage with others, ensuring that visitors find a warm and friendly atmosphere at any of the weekday dining sites. Volunteers have a variety of responsibilities such as setting tables, managing reservations, assisting with some food preparation, serving lunch and cleanup.
SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Counselors help Medicare participants of all ages understand their Medicare benefits and other health insurance options. Counselors assist consumers by providing information and assistance about health insurance and public benefit options. They help with insurance choices, enrollments, applications, and can provide referrals to other agencies. SHINE gives you the opportunity to meet and help elders with a difficult topic.
For more information about volunteer opportunities, visit www.mves.org/volunteer or contact Leah Mulrenan, Volunteer Program Manager, at 781-388-2375.