Volunteers needed at IVC

Published 10:27 pm Saturday, May 30, 2015

Island Volunteer Caregivers is looking for enthusiastic, dedicated volunteers to help expand life-enrichment opportunities for the island’s elderly and disabled.

As part of this new initiative, Island Volunteer Caregivers’ goals are to develop and offer more activities that can help make care receivers’ lives more interesting, enjoyable and connected with others in the community. Such experiences may include excursions where a volunteer takes and joins a care-receiver in attending a musical event, play, film, or other cultural or educational event, or in visiting an art gallery, museum, gardens, bazaar or other place of interest, or for a walk, scenic drive, etc.

Potential activities may include one-on-one in-home activities such as playing games, singing, gardening or just visiting.

As part of this focus, IVC also plans to explore formation of additional IVC-sponsored activities for groups of care receivers, such as two already in existence: a monthly book club and a monthly music appreciation club (often attended by care receivers and volunteers together).

Also, IVC will continue its efforts to arrange volunteer transportation for care receivers wishing to attend existing recreational, social, educational or cultural programs sponsored by others, including the senior center, library, a knitting circle and the aquatic center.

“We believe these kinds of activities – for which so many of our care receivers need volunteer help in order to experience – are vitally important to their well-being,” said Robin Gaphni, IVC’s program manager and a member of a new IVC Board-Staff-Volunteers committee that is overseeing the life enrichment efforts.

“They’re the kinds of experiences that can lift spirits and bring some happiness, vitality and meaning into the lives of people who are struggling with challenges of aging or disability, helping them to feel that they remain valued members of our community,” Gaphni explained.

Those interested in IVC’s services, including volunteering and other support opportunities, may obtain more information by contacting IVC’s office at info@ivcbainbridge.org or by calling 206-842-4441.