This Month’s Valued Volunteer
During childhood, Annahita Forghan began losing her hearing. She was studying to become a pharmacist when she completely lost her hearing, and she started experiencing other progressing symptoms. Shortly after graduating pharmacy school, Annahita learned that she had a rare genetic disease called PHARC (Polyneuropathy, Hearing loss, Ataxia, Retinitis pigmentosa, and Cataract). Unable to practice pharmacy, and with progressing disabilities, she was unsure what to do. A physical therapist she had been working with suggested volunteering at the Brookline Senior Center.
Early in summer of 2023, Annahita reached out and had the idea to teach a beginners American Sign Language (ASL) class at the Senior Center, even though she was still learning to sign herself. What started out with teaching one beginner’s ASL class, has now grown into two weekly intermediate classes. In teaching others, Annahita has improved her own ASL skills, has developed her skills in teaching, and has come to love the senior community. “The people in my classes teach me about life, suggest books to read, and make grocery store recommendations. Seniors are so motivated to learn and are so wise. I love teaching them! I don’t know what life would’ve been like without the Senior Center”, Annahita shares.
Annahita is also a musician, and volunteers her time to play her flute at the Senior Center. She has performed during our Craft Fair & Rummage Sale, as well as other solo performances.
Annahita has a love of travel and has paired that with volunteering as well. When she lost her hearing, she connected with a group called VoluntEars, an organization that arranges trips overseas for deaf, hearing and hard-of-hearing people of all ages. She has since gone on three international trips with them, volunteering, visiting with local deaf communities, as well as visiting amazing local sites.
Annahita feels like she now has a connection with seniors. “My body is aging fast, and most people my age haven’t experienced that, but seniors understand. I find positivity here, and a motivation to live. It’s all about mind set, and the Brookline Senior Center has made such a difference for me”, Annahita shares.
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
Visiting Volunteers
Are you interested in weekly social visits with seniors in their home? Volunteers are matched with seniors in the community for weekly friendly visits to help with social isolation common for so many homebound seniors. Volunteers will receive initial training and ongoing support from a Brookline Senior Center Social Worker. Please reach out with our Volunteer coordinator, Valerie Graf, at vgraf@brooklinema.gov or 617-730-2743 to learn more.
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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