Making A Difference

Following a big storm, a man was strolling along the beach and observed that hundreds and hundreds of starfish had been washed up from the ocean. As he walked along, he then noticed a young boy picking up the starfish and throwing them back into the ocean. Approaching the young boy, the man stopped and watched him diligently returning the starfish to the ocean. Realizing the futility of the young boy's efforts, he finally asked him why he was going to all that trouble. "You will never get it all done, so what difference does it make?" As the young boy stooped down to pick up another starfish and throw it into the ocean, he said, "It makes a difference to that one!"

Samaritan Caregivers volunteers are that young boy - making a difference, one person at a time.

Samaritan Caregivers have volunteer opportunities working directly with the people or indirectly for the people. You can relieve the 24 hour caregiver by sitting with their loved one while they get out. You can visit with someone in their home or over the phone or by sending greeting cards. You can drive someone to their appoinment or run an errand for them. Or, you can record the newspaper for the visually impaired.

If your strength and/or interest is more administrative, you can work as a receptionist in our office 4 hours a week. Or, you can serve on one of our two boards or on one of our five board committees. You could help fold the "Neighbor To Neighbor" newsletter once a quarter or help with one of the three fund raising activities.

Whatever you have to give, Samaritan Caregivers can use. You set how much time you have to give and how often. For some it is four hours a week, for others 1-2 hours several times a year. You can volunteer for one time, for a month, for six months, or indefinitely. You can volunteer part of the year since you are away the other part. You can volunteer individually or as a group. You can take your young children with you or take along an elderly parent so they too have the opportunity to help. Whatever your interest, whatever your availability, there is someone who matches in need.

Volunteers are expected to attend the initial Orientation Session to learn about our mission, vision, and values. Then there is the opportunity to attend two Volunteer Enrichment Sessions a year for ongoing training and education. Topics are chosen that enhance the volunteering experience.

If you are interested in becoming a Samaritan Caregivers volunteer, complete the Volunteer Application online and submit it. The Volunteer Coordinator will contact you to help you determine where your time and talents can best be served, schedule you for the one hour orientation, and then match you.

A Neighbor's Independence Depends On You!

Critical Current Volunteer Needs