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We are proud to introduce our newly published booklet, Valued Volunteers of the Brookline Senior Center. This publication highlights nearly a decade of our amazing volunteers, a sampling of hundreds of our volunteers, both past and present. You can stop by the Brookline Senior Center to get your copy. If you know someone who should be featured for our ongoing Valued Volunteer articles, please reach out to Valerie Graf, Volunteer Coordinator, at vgraf@brooklinema.gov or 617-730-2743.
Valued Volunteer
The Brookline Senior Center’s newly launched “Visiting Volunteer” program connects seniors with volunteers for weekly social visits. After completing training with social worker Sharon Sandalow, the first group of five volunteers began visiting their assigned seniors this past fall. Each month, they reconvene at the Senior Center to share experiences, discuss articles on aging, and learn from one another. Thoughtfully guided by Sharon, they have not only built meaningful connections with their seniors but also have formed bonds within the group. Their experiences highlight the depth and benefits of the Visiting Volunteer program. (click here to read this month’s installment)
Each volunteer’s experience shows that these relationships are not one-sided. Through conversations, sharing memories, or moments of learning, both senior and volunteer benefit profoundly. These volunteers and seniors remind us of the impact of kindness and companionship, proving that friendship connects all ages.
Thinking of Volunteering?
If you have a special interest area or expertise that you would like to share with the Senior Center, please reach out to Valerie Graf, the Volunteer Coordinator, at 617-730-2743 or vgraf@brooklinema.gov to learn more about creating and facilitating a new program at the Senior Center.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
S.H.O.P (Students Helping Older People)
The S.H.O.P. (Students Helping Older People) Program, a collaboration between the Brookline Senior Center and the Brookline High School (BHS), has been a community service club at BHS over 25 years. Students are paired with seniors to assist with grocery shopping throughout the school year. In addition to providing practical support for seniors, this program also offers high school students valuable life skills. Not only do they hone their grocery shopping skills, it creates opportunities for students and seniors to exchange stories and life experiences, fostering rich intergenerational conversations. These connections often evolve into meaningful, long-lasting relationships, benefiting both the students and seniors involved.
Anne Mogel, a BHS junior and one of this year’s SHOP Student Leaders says, “I’ve had a great experience participating in SHOP. I have been able to form a relationship with the senior I’m shopping for, as well as experience what it’s like to do hands-on volunteering, where I can see my impact up close. I shop for my senior every weekend, and it has become woven into my weekly routine. I’m looking forward to continuing my shopping this year, and furthering my experience!”
Currently serving approximately 25 Brookline seniors, the SHOP program gets high marks from the seniors involved. One senior couldn’t say enough positive things about the two students with whom she has been paired. She noted that “It’s the highlight of my week!” Another senior reflected that “the student’s cheery demeanor is a gift in itself. The program incorporates young people to help older people like me. It’s beneficial for everyone involved. Win Win!”
The SHOP program has officially started for the 2024/2025 school year and students are ready to start shopping! If you are a senior who would like to have a student shop for you, please call Valerie, the Volunteer Coordinator, at 617‐730‐2743 or email her at vgraf@brooklinema.gov.
CLICK HERE to watch a video to learn more about the S.H.O.P program and how it benefits both students and seniors.
Retirement Engagement Alternatives Program (REAP)
The REAP program is designed for Brookline residents aged 60 and older who wish to remain engaged and active in the community while in retirement or partial retirement. Limited additional program opportunities may also be available for individuals aged 55-60. The goal of this program is to enhance the retirement experience by connecting participants with either part-time paid or volunteer work in the community or at the Brookline Senior Center (BSC).
To enroll or for more information, call 617-730-2767 or email Vivian Williams at vwilliams@brooklinema.gov.at vwilliams@brooklinema.gov.
Other services
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