“Lady Bea”, as Bill fondly refers to her, has had a tough year. Bea is 98 and failing health has made the transition to long term care necessary. Bill, a retired Wesleyan professor, has been visting Bea for more than two years providing companionship, running errands and reading her poetry. He has helped to support her with the difficult change. “What she needs is someone to listen. If you’re 98, you have experienced a lot”, said Bill. Phone calls and visits to her in her new home have helped ease the move for Bea. Bill continues to read to Bea and has actually developed a “following” as other residents gather to enjoy his recitations.


Lucy is grateful to volunteer Joan. Until the two met, Lucy looked upon her computer as “ a piece of furniture”. Weekly visits from Joan have changed that and Lucy has been reconnected to her native Uganda where she not only can read a newspaper online but can send e-mails to family members. Joan says of her volunteer work “I was looking for a way to make a connection. The pleasure I get is immeasurable”.


People are living longer than ever and many seniors find themselves alone, having survived their spouses, their friends, and in some occasions, even their children. We only ask one hour a week of a volunteer’s time. It’s easy ... all you have to do is visit, read a book together, take a walk, share stories, let someone know you care about them. This hour can change the life of an elderly person living in your community.