Volunteer Appreciation Time

With the theme “Thank you for your time,” Marcy Stevenson, coordinator of healthcare volunteers, organized a brunch in the Holly Room in recognition of the contributions of healthcare volunteers to Medford Leas residents. The brunch was attended by 50 resident volunteers and 5 community volunteers including Panda, a pet therapy dog. In accord with the theme, each attendee received a live thyme plant courtesy of Debbie Lux. With over 90 resident volunteers and 10 from the outside community, these volunteers help residents living in assisted living to participate in social, recreational, and fitness activities. In addition to transporting residents in wheelchairs to activities in the Oak Room, volunteers serve in various capacities. Fitness Center volunteers transport residents to and from the Fitness Center and pool. Other volunteers take residents in wheel-chairs to Sunday vespers, a non-denominational worship service. Woolman Welcomers visit residents of Woolman, both Medford Leas residents and those from the community at large, who are undergoing rehab. Mail distributors deliver in-house mail to the boxes of assisted living residents. End-of-life vigil volunteers sit with residents who are in their last days and hours, making sure they are never alone. The Walking Club takes residents in wheel-chairs on monthly walking tours through the courtyards when weather permits.

Musician volunteers play the piano, harmonica, and violin for individuals, groups, and special events. Pet therapy animals visit residents in their rooms or in group settings. Some volunteers read to residents and help with letter writing. Finally, the Medford Leas Singers participate in monthly sing-alongs, during which individual singers sit next to residents to encourage and assist with singing. Volunteers are always welcome. If you would like to share your time and talents, please contact Marcy Stevenson.

 by Len Cebula with photos by Joyce Koch
 from the June, 2017 issue of Medford Leas Life.