Neighbors Who Care Needs Van Drivers!

Robin Wilson

Neighbors Who Care has been proudly serving our community for 32 years, helping local seniors remain independent in their homes through volunteer support. We are truly a “neighbors helping neighbors” organization, and we’re always looking for more friendly faces to help us meet the growing demand.

One of our most popular services is our weekly group shopping trips! Each week, we take clients on pre-organized outings to Fry’s, WinCo, Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and Target.

As a Volunteer Van Driver, your shift starts in the morning alongside a volunteer assistant. Armed with your client list, the fun begins! You’ll pick up clients right at their homes, head to the store, and give them an hour to shop. Once they’re finished, you and your assistant help load up their groceries and return everyone safely home.

No special commercial driver’s license is required—just a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and current auto insurance.

Ready to make a difference? To learn more about joining our van driver team, visit our Neighbors Who Care website at www.neighborwhocare.com or contact Robin Wilson, our Volunteer Manager directly at robin@neighborswhocare.com or 480–565-374.

(Note: All new volunteers attend a volunteer orientation and complete a routine background check.)

A Gift That Helps Keep Our Community Connected

Jenny Sanderson

Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts aren’t things you can wrap. They are the gifts of friendship, connection, laughter and knowing that someone cares.

Neighbors Who Care is grateful to 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun for their generous $7,350 donation on behalf of their East Valley members. This thoughtful support will help provide social activities and meaningful experiences for older adults in our community.

For many older adults, especially those who live alone or have difficulty getting out, opportunities to socialize can mean so much more than simply having something to do. A shared meal, an afternoon activity, a friendly conversation or a chance to spend time with others can bring joy and give someone something to look forward to.

At Neighbors Who Care, we know that helping older adults remain independent is about more than meeting their basic needs. It is also about helping them feel connected, valued, and part of their community.

“Neighbors Who Care is deeply grateful for the generous support from 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun,” said Terri O’Herron, Executive Director of Neighbors Who Care. “Social isolation can have a significant impact on older adults, and this support allows us to create opportunities for connection and companionship. We are so thankful for their generosity and for helping us make a difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

The kindness of community partners like 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun reminds us that small moments can have a big impact. Sometimes, a smile, a conversation, a new friendship, or simply knowing someone remembered you can brighten an entire day.

Together, we can help ensure that our older neighbors don’t have to journey through life alone.

Finding Joy in Service with Kim Kubsch

When you talk with Kim Kubsch, her warmth and vibrant energy are immediately infectious. She is the kind of person who instantly makes you feel at ease, a quality that has made her an invaluable heart and voice within the Neighbors Who Care (NWC) community.

Kim’s journey with us began shortly after she and her husband of 25 years, Gary, moved to Sun Lakes in 2008. She initially volunteered with NWC for a few years before stepping back to focus on her growing career. For a decade, Kim taught Tai Chi and balance classes across eight senior communities until the 2020 pandemic brought in-person instruction to a halt. Never one to slow down, Kim used that pivotal moment to pivot toward another passion: helping others organize their lives.

Drawing on 30 years in the shopping center industry and her experience as an entrepreneur, Kim launched her professional organizing business, Joyful Downsizing. Her work ranges from organizing closets to helping seniors navigate the major transition from aging in place to moving into independent or assisted living.

At the very same time, Kim felt a strong pull to return to Neighbors Who Care. In 2020, as the pandemic created an urgent need for drivers and support, Kim knew she was in a position to step up. She dove right in, assisting clients with transportation, grocery shopping, and daily errands.

For Kim, the flexibility of volunteering with NWC has been a game changer. “I greatly appreciate the flexibility offered by the NWC volunteering program,” Kim shares. “It is so flexible that I can schedule my volunteer times convenient to my full-time work schedule.” Through the volunteer portal, she takes charge of her own availability, dedicating a block of time each week that fits seamlessly into her busy life.

Beyond her hands-on work with clients, Kim was asked to join the Board of Directors in late 2020 and currently serves as Board Secretary. While she plans to complete one more year on the board, her heart remains rooted in direct service, and she fully intends to keep volunteering well into her 90s!

When asked why she gives her time so generously, Kim reflects on the profound connection she makes with every person she helps. She recognizes that asking for assistance isn’t easy for many seniors, but creating a comfortable, welcoming environment makes all the difference.

“Volunteering with NWC brings me a special kind of joy, the reward of knowing my time, kindness, and companionship are making someone’s everyday life brighter, safer, and more secure,” Kim says. “Neighbors Who Care is a win-win where the clients are happy, the volunteers are happy, and the staff are happy. It is just such a joyful place to volunteer!”

If you have been looking for a meaningful way to give back on a schedule that works for you, we invite you to join Kim and become a part of our Neighbors Who Care family.

Save the Date: Aging Made Easier Conference

Jenny Sanderson

Thriving Through Every Stage of Life

Neighbors Who Care invites the community to the sixth Annual Aging Made Easier Conference on Jan. 26.

This free community event is designed for older adults, caregivers, families, and anyone interested in learning more about resources and services that can help make aging easier.

This year’s theme, “Thriving Through Every Stage of Life,” will focus on practical information, helpful resources, and ways to support well-being throughout the aging journey.

The morning will feature a Senior Services Resource Fair with more than 40 vendors, giving attendees the opportunity to connect with local organizations, businesses, and service providers all in one place. The conference will also feature informative speakers and engaging conversations on topics that matter to our aging community.

Save the Date!

Jan. 26, Resource Fair begins at 8 a.m.,Conference: 9 a.m. to noon

Be sure to register at www.neighborswhocare.com to save your seat and be part of this special day filled with information, resources, and connections for thriving through every stage of life.

A Simple Way to Support Neighbors Who Care

Jenny Sanderson

Did you know you may be able to support Neighbors Who Care and reduce your Arizona state income tax at the same time?

If you pay Arizona state income tax, your donation to Neighbors Who Care may qualify for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit.

For 2026, the tax credit limits are:

Single filer: Up to $505. Married filing jointly: Up to $1,009

When making your donation, use Neighbors Who Care code: 22246.

Your donation helps provide transportation, meals, companionship, and other services that help local older adults remain independent and living at home.

Four Easy Ways to Donate

1. Donate online: Neighborswhocare.com

2. Mail or drop off a check: Neighbors Who Care, 10450 E. Riggs Rd., Ste. 113, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

3. Make a credit card donation: Call 480-895-7133

4. Donate in person: Stop by our office at the address above.

Your support makes a difference in the lives of local seniors and may help reduce your Arizona state tax bill.

Please consult your tax advisor to determine your eligibility and the tax benefits of your donation.