Benevilla is a non-profit organization offering free essential home services for older adults who may need extra help in maintaining their independence at home.
The Benevilla FREE Home Services Program relies on volunteers to provide grocery shopping, assisted transportation to medical appointments, handyperson services, business assistance and in-person and phone visits to seniors. These services help ease the burden on family members caring for loved ones and ensure older adults with no family support are not left isolated and alone.
The need for such services continues to grow as baby boomers age into retirement. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of people age 65 and older is expected to almost double, from 37 million in 2006 to 71.5 million by 2030. By 2050, that number is expected to hit 88.5 million people, which will account for some 20 percent of the U.S. population. It is obvious the need for home services is critical.
During 2019, Benevilla volunteers donated almost 30,000 hours of their time providing our community with a variety of much-needed senior services. Some volunteers gave several hours each week, while others provided a few hours each month. “We appreciate every minute of their time, and so do those they are helping,” says Joanne Thomson, President and CEO of Benevilla. “Together with our dedicated staff members, volunteers help Benevilla serve thousands of seniors in our West Valley communities every year.”
The need for volunteers becomes critical in the summer months as our winter visitors return to cooler climates. No special skills are required to become a volunteer, and Benevilla offers several ways in which volunteers can contribute. “Our need is greatest in providing free home services,” says Paula Barron, Benevilla Volunteer Coordinator. “The more volunteers we have, the more people we can serve.”
This is a great opportunity to help your community especially if you are a part-time worker, bus driver, teacher or seasonal worker who has more free time in the summer. Generally, volunteers must be age 18 or older. However, youth volunteers are also welcome when a supervising adult can accompany them. To learn more about or apply for our volunteer opportunities at Benevilla, visit our website at www.benevilla.org or call 623.584.4999 today.