Some people talk about making a difference. Donors and volunteers take action to truly live the spirit of philanthropy. Right in the middle of National Gratitude Month and eight days before Thanksgiving, National Philanthropy Day is the perfect time to reflect on all the ways volunteers and donors are helping older adults live life to the fullest through Lutheran Senior Services.
Philanthropic deeds come in many forms, but each makes a significant impact in someone’s life and no act of kindness goes unnoticed. Through gifts of time and financial support, volunteers and donors have made the following possible:
- Senior Connections Plus: This volunteer program provides social opportunities and light housekeeping support to Affordable Housing residents.
- Project Wellness: Visiting nurses provide wellness services and resources to Affordable Housing residents each week, improving health outcomes.
- Tovertafel: Magic moments in Memory Care are created thanks to this innovative tool that uses light projections on a table to engage residents, team members, and family members in playful games and interactions.
- Virtual Reality Goggles: Joyful exploration through virtual reality brings fun new experiences and comforting memories to residents as well as clients in Hospice and Palliative care.
- Good Neighbor: Providing access to Private Duty services to low/fixed-income individuals at a reduced cost helps support independence.
- Spirituality: Residents of all faiths receive spiritual support and chaplaincy services.
- Aging Answers Social Services: People facing challenges and seeking guidance through the aging journey can count on Aging Answers for help identifying resources and support.
- Staff Scholarships: Helping team members access learning opportunities to help them live their own fullest lives. This educational support also results in greater care for residents and clients.
- Benevolent Care: When financial resources are outlived, Benevolent Care steps in to ensure care for life.
Each year, 13,000 lives are touched through these and other LSS programs and services thanks to support from volunteers and donors. In the words of an LSS volunteer:
“We are not just giving thanks, we are living thanks. It’s ‘Thanks Living’ because we are grateful that the Lord gave us something to give.”
On this National Philanthropy Day, we give thanks to all of you who are living your thanks through LSS!
Interested in Volunteering for the Senior Connections Plus Program? Click here!