Imagine a strong community that offers members opportunities and support to age and/or heal successfully in their homes. That describes the intent of Seabrook Island Village (SIV), a non-profit, volunteer organization that is creating a network to facilitate “neighbors helping neighbors.” The Village concept is part of a national movement that started with the first Village in Boston over 15 years ago. Today there are over 200 Villages and more than 150 in development in 45 states and the District of Columbia. The new one here on Seabrook Island is a grass roots effort spearheaded by fellow Seabrookers.
Thanks to the generosity of the Seabrook community, we are happy to let you know that we have raised sufficient funds to launch our pilot program and begin to provide services on October 1, 2019. Initially this will be a pilot program as we work through our procedures and then we expect to be fully operational on January 1, 2020.
A cohort of 23 new volunteers has been vetted and are participating in training. They will be ready to respond to requests for service from Seabrookers in need. Services include providing transportation for medical appointments and local shopping, doing simple household chores, providing caregiver relief, and making reassuring calls and visits.
Do you know someone who is aging in place and needs some assistance to be able to do so safely? Or, are you or someone you know, struggling with activities of daily living due to an accident or illness? If so, SIV is able to help! Applications are being accepted now for participation as a member in the pilot program and beyond. Beginning on January 1, 2020 the annual cost to become a member and access services is $350 for an individual and $650 for a couple. To learn more about the process for becoming a member, contact either:
Mary Fleck at marybfleck@gmail.com or 908-208-6640 or
Kem O’Sullivan at kemosullivan@gmail.com or 508-566-7198.
AND/OR ….
Are you looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity? Would you like to make a difference in the lives of neighbors and make our community an even better place? If so, SIV has just the opportunity for you! Volunteers must apply, be vetted and participate in a training session. Applications are being accepted now. To learn more about becoming a volunteer, contact Elise and Ken Haderer at ekhaderer@gmail.com.
We would like to hear from you. For questions or for additional information about how you can support SIV, email: sivillagemail@gmail.com. It takes a village!
-Submitted by Seabrook Island Village Board of Directors