Seniors who want to continue living independently can sometimes struggle with isolation, if they are home-bound, or lack of mobility, particularly if they have given up driving. At JF&CS, we can help through our AgeWell Rides and AgeWell Visits programs, which recruit volunteers to provide transportation or friendly visits to eligible seniors. If you are a senior who might benefit from these services, or you know someone, please contact Ellen (or call 412-422-0400).
Both programs have helped seniors stay active and connected to our community. A recent
perusal of the feedback received by the AgeWell Pittsburgh staff produced these comments
about clients’ experiences with AgeWell Rides and Visits. We share them to let other seniors know that solutions to these challenges are available, and that taking action can make good things happen!
“You have sent me visitors who almost immediately felt like friends – they bring me
much needed sunshine. I felt that my happy feelings were mutual.”
“The visits my late husband received were extremely beneficial to him. He looked
forward to their weekly Friday afternoon visits and so did they. It was a perfect fit.
You and your volunteers are super people. I’ll always be grateful for the many hours
they spent in enriching our lives.”
“My volunteer was so sweet and accommodating. Keep up the wonderful service you
provide to people like me. With more and more people in the Pittsburgh area aging
and their families and friends at a distance, it’s caring and compassionate people like
JF&CS that provide that vital 4th wheel on the wagon!”
“I would like to thank my kind volunteer and AgeWell Rides for providing a ride for me
to my husband’s, parents’ and grandparents’ gravesides. Not only did he drive me to
the cemetery, but he made sure of my footing on the paths and was very helpful.
Most important he did the prayers in Hebrew and that would have very much pleased
the family and individuals. He truly did a mitzvah. I wish all at AgeWell Rides a happy
and very healthy New Year.”
“The time I spend with my volunteer is a gift to me. Thank you for your good “matchmaking” skills and enthusiasm.”
We at JF&CS wish to say thank YOU for these kind words and appreciation for our
work! And to heap more heartfelt thanks onto all the wonderful volunteers who bring
this joy!
AgeWell Rides and AgeWell Visits are always seeking additional volunteer drivers and
visitors. As you can see, even a few hours a month or a week, can make a huge difference.
Please contact Ellen (or call 412-422-0400) if you would like to become a volunteer.
AgeWell Rides and AgeWell Visits are programs of AgeWell Pittsburgh, a partnership between the Jewish Association on Aging, JF&CS, and Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh, and is funded in part by the generous support of Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, United Way and the Jewish Healthcare Foundation.