Community Connectors

Patti Spaniak

CC Coordinator

http://www.cayugaconnectors.org/

MISSION

Changing Strangers into Neighbors and Neighbors into Friends.

ABOUT

A network of neighborhood volunteers who work to help seniors and people living with disabilities remain safely in their homes.

All volunteers and neighbors are connectors and all volunteer services are free. Volunteer support can include help with chores or socialization, or attending classes at a nearby church or in a neighbor’s home.

A local resident serves as a paid Community Connector, developing the volunteer/connector cohort, planning activities and acting as program cheerleader.

Neighborhood residents serve as an advisory board and help keep the program relevant to participant needs.

To age in community with optimum wellbeing, more than home healthcare services are needed -- help with grocery shopping or mowing the lawn, a ride to the local museum or the dentist, a friendly visit -- these are all examples of support that can be provided by volunteers to help a senior live independently longer.

For a neighborhood that does not have a traditional senior center, a network of friendly and supportive neighborhood volunteers is an exciting alternative.