Jeanne (along with her husband Bob), a retired Middle School Librarian, has lived in Clifton Park for over 40 years. Her son and his family live in West Hartford, CT where she loves to visit her two grandchildren as often as possible. She enjoys traveling and especially loves to visit and hike in our National Parks.
We asked Jeanne to share in her own words about her 11-year experience in making a difference in the lives of those she encounters through the Care Links program.
What made you decide to volunteer with Care Links?
"I attended a luncheon where a presentation about Care Links was given. I had been looking for a place to volunteer that would also work around my personal schedule. When I heard about the transportation option, where volunteers provide rides for seniors to medical appointments, it seemed to be a perfect fit for me. It provided the flexibility I needed as drivers can volunteer for a ride on a day and time of their choosing."
What have you personally gained through your experience with Care Links, what have you enjoyed the most?
"A few years before starting with Care Links, I lost both my mother and mother-in-law. As older adults, there were many times when they needed rides to doctor appointments, but no services were available in their towns. Knowing that I am helping other people with similar needs in my own community is very rewarding. I don't know about the other drivers, but I found myself volunteering to drive the same people whenever possible so I could get to know them better. The seniors I met were very grateful for my help and they soon became friends."
How do you make the most out of your experience with the seniors you meet?
"I'm not sure exactly how this evolved but I guess it was mostly because my "senior" (I was matched to) bonded and became good friends. As a result, I became her regular driver weekly on Monday and Wednesday afternoons."
What advice would you give to someone interested in volunteering with the Care Links program?
"I would highly recommend volunteering with Care Links. If you are not interested in driving, you can participate many other ways. Maybe helping with respite assistance, a friendly visit, shopping and errands, or light housekeeping as more to your liking. We will all one day be in the same position as many of these seniors and we can only hope that Care Links and their volunteers are there for us when we need it."
To learn more about volunteering, contact Care Links today at 518-399-3262!
