With 87% of Americans aged 65 and older preferring to remain in their homes and communities as they age, according to AARP, the demand for support to “age in place” continues to grow. Benevilla, a non-profit family services agency, is meeting this need through its Home Services program, where volunteers make a significant impact by enabling older adults to maintain their independence and stay in their homes longer.
The Benevilla Free Home Services program provides short- or long-term assistance to individuals with limited resources and options. The program’s dedicated volunteers offer a wide range of services, including grocery shopping, transportation to medical appointments, phone pals, in-person wellness checks, emergency errands, light handyman services, and help with personal paperwork.
In 2022 alone, Benevilla volunteers provided seniors with 847 rides to medical appointments, made 1,020 grocery deliveries to homebound seniors, and performed over 48,807 individual acts of service, such as minor home maintenance, in-person visits, and phone chats. “Our generous volunteers allow us to offer these services vital to helping older adults in our community, helping them age in place. Without them, we would not be able to serve as many people as we do,” says Joanne Thomson, president and CEO of Benevilla.
Volunteering not only benefits the community but also provides personal and professional growth opportunities for volunteers themselves. Studies have shown that volunteering leads to improved mental and physical health outcomes, including reduced stress, enhanced mood, and increased physical activity.
Benevilla offers various volunteer opportunities to suit individual preferences and skills. Apart from the Home Services program, volunteers can support the Benefitness Adaptive Gym, which serves community members with different abilities, special considerations, and ongoing clinical needs. Alternatively, they can get involved with Life Enrichment Adult Day Care programs or contribute to administrative tasks.
Established in 1981, Benevilla is committed to enriching the lives of West Valley residents by providing care services for older adults, adults with disabilities, children, and families. Those interested in volunteering with Benevilla can call 623-584-4999 or visit benevilla.org.
