Santa pops in for a visit to one of NWC’s clients!
The no scrooge neighborhood
Eric Ehst, Executive Director
It’s the holiday season again. Anyone who has read Dickens’ A Christmas Carol or seen one of the many movie versions remembers that moment when Scrooge realizes that a person’s true legacy is not how much money they accumulated, but the difference they made in the lives of others. The moment is dramatic and profound, the highlight of the story. Contemporary scientific research has confirmed that rich people aren’t any happier than those with less. Money can’t buy happiness, although I wouldn’t mind trying to rent it for a little while. True happiness comes from inner fulfillment and nothing provides that better than helping others, knowing you made a positive difference in someone’s life.
Welcome to Neighbors Who Care. Our volunteers make that vital difference in their neighbors’ lives every day. It’s amazing how much a little thing like driving someone to a doctor’s appointment, changing a light bulb, stopping by for a friendly visit, or delivering a hot meal means to someone who can no longer do it for themselves. The gratitude shown by the people we help to keep their pride and dignity, living independently in their own homes, is enough to drive the Scrooge out of the coldest heart.
I’ve quoted from this client’s note before, but it is truly the most eloquent description of our impact I have seen.
“Time and again your patience, understanding and gentle ways aided my recovery from spinal surgery. With no family closer than 1200 miles, you phoned to check on me, you took me to post-op appointments, you brought me meals. I applaud all of you volunteers who are the heart of Neighbors Who Care. Thank you for coming to my rescue at a vulnerable time in my life.”
This holiday, don’t be a Scrooge, donate a little of your time to help your neighbors. We have no set hours or minimum commitment. You can leave a legacy of hope and happiness. And, speaking of legacies, consider remembering Neighbors Who Care in your will or estate planning. Your donations provide the support necessary to recruit, train and schedule our volunteers, and to provide professional case management services for the people we assist. They also help to insure that we’ll be here in the future if you or your loved ones need a hand. Our volunteer-based operating model and minimal overhead triple the impact of your donations in the community.
Many in our community don’t realize how lucky we are to have such a special, award-winning local organization with a national reputation for caring and excellence. Please check us out.
As always, if you know of someone who needs our help or if you would like to experience the deep personal satisfaction that comes from volunteering to assist your neighbors, contact us at 480-895-7133; www.neighborswhocare.com).