William Penn Life, 2003 (38. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
2003-06-01 / 6. szám
Charitable Ideas these seniors. This healing was profound and deep. It was changing her life. What if she offered this opportunity to others? The name "Adopt-A-Grandparent Program" came into being as Langstraat began inviting others to embrace a senior. The idea caught the attention and interest of people searching for a way to make a difference. It quickly spread like a wildfire of goodwill. Today, thousands of seniors have been "adopted", loved and cherished since those early days of the program in 1978, through Adopt-A-Grandparent programs estalished by colleges, high schools, grade schools, churches, volunteer agencies, fraternal societies and individual families. While each program is unique in its own way, many have adopted the basic forumla for success established by Langstraat's original program. There are three basic options for Adopt-A-Grandparent volunteers: becoming a friend, being an on-call driver and serving as a member of the program's board. Responsibilities of a Friend • Initiate each visit, making sure to see your adopted grandparent once a week. • Give love and care to your new friend. • Receive the love that is offered. Verbally acknowledge what you are getting out of your relationship. • Have fun. Laugh. Laughter heals many wounds and creates a bond between you that will soon become strong and secure. • Realize that it takes three to six months for the relationship to "gel", Charity Links Adopt-A-Grandparent programs are operated throughout the nation by colleges, local schools, churches and volunteer centers. To see if there’s a program in your area, contact your local minister, Volunteer Nurse Association or volunteer center. be patient in the beginning. • Be a good listener. Simply sit and pay attention to the words, the body language, and to the setting of your adopted grandparent. Notice ways you may assist the senior. If you are able, ask the senior if he or she would like some help with needs that arise. • Be creative with your visits. Take a picnic lunch and go to the park to eat together. Bring him to your home to sit on the deck and have some iced tea. Take her on a walk around the block. These are bonding times, memorable visits. • Remember that your grandparent has quirks, just as you do. Forgiveness is essential as you accompany your grandparent on her journey. • Commitment is the key to making a relationship work. A highly committed volunteer is generally the most successful volunteer. A highly committed volunteer does her best to display consistency, being on time (a big deal to seniors), and showing you keep your word. You will be rewarded with the trust, respect and love of your grandparent. On-Call Drivers The responsibilities of an on-call driver are not as demanding as those placed on a friend. Nevertheless, the driver plays a significant role in the life of the senior. The driver should: • Be available to drive a senior to an appointment. This appointment must fit in with your schedule. • Enjoy the senior. Maybe have a glass of iced tea together after the appointment. Board Members The role of board members varies from program to program, depending on the scope and needs of the individual program. In general, volunteers who serve on an Adopt- A-Grandparent program board: • Promote and increase the visibility of the program's vision to an extended network of individuals, corporations and churches. • Assist with fund raising for annual growth plans. • Conduct an annual review and evaluation of the program and make suggestions for improvement. • Have personal involvement in the life of a senior, as appropriate. Senior participation If you are age 60 or over, you have the opportunity to be a member of the Adopt-A-Grandparent program. That membership entitles you to have a friend.This friend will come and visit you weekly and may check in by phone during the week. The only requirement on your part is to give a bushel of love to your new friend, to return the smiles, laughter and hugs you will receive. [jjjij~j It Starts With Us June 21,2003 \* •/ >fVpv1 A A N JOING3ÄKHDSDAY it starts with us Sponsored by America's Fraternal Benefit Societies In Partnership with The Points of Light Foundation www.joinhandsday.org William Penn Life, June 2003 9
