Benevilla, a senior and family services non-profit agency celebrating their 40th year in the community, offers free essential home services for older adults who may need extra help in maintaining their independence at home. They currently need transportation volunteers for their free Home Services Program especially in the communities of Peoria and El Mirage. The Benevilla free “Home Services Program” is driven by volunteers who provide grocery shopping assistance and assisted transportation to essential medical appointments. 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. Unfortunately, the need for volunteers becomes critical as the summer months approach as our winter visitors return to cooler climates.
The need for such services continues to grow in our community as baby boomers age into retirement. According to the U.S. Census Bureau 18% of the population in Arizona is over the age of 65 and that number jumps to over 20% in the Northwest Valley. It is obvious the need for home services is critical. Like many non-profits during the continuing COVID-19 pandemic Benevilla has had many volunteers step back to reduce their public exposure and risk of contracting the virus.
“The need for volunteers continues as the pandemic continues to force seniors into isolation. This is especially true as we enter the summer months when many of our loyal volunteers leave their winter homes in the area for a break from the summer heat. No special skills are required to become a volunteer, and Benevilla offers a variety of ways for volunteers to contribute” says Paula Barron, Benevilla Volunteer Coordinator. “The more volunteers we have, the more people we can serve.”
Some volunteers give several hours each week, while others provide 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.”
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.