Read the article that appeared in the September 2022 edition of the Front Porch magazine.
As I meet with the volunteers and participants of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg’s Senior Visitors Program, I always gain some new perspective or insight. I love learning about their experiences and hearing about how their friendship has a positive impact on their lives.
I recently talked with volunteer, Jade and her friend, Gwen. Though they have only been visiting with each other for a few months, they are already wonderful friends.
Jade explained, “I was new to the area and wanted to get involved and give back. I thought volunteering would be a good way to get invested in the community. I found the Senior Visitors Program online and felt that volunteering with older adults would give me a chance to work with an age group I might not otherwise interact with.”
“It has been great to be around someone at a different stage in life from me and who has a different perspective. I have learned so much from Gwen. On paper it may look like we have nothing in common, but we have a lot to offer each other. Gwen is great! She is funny and cheerful. We always have a good time together. We go on walks and share memories and photos.” 
Gwen said of the program, “The [Senior Visitors] Program and Jade are a blessing. God put Jade and I together. She is younger than my grandchildren, but we have a great connection. We have found we have a lot in common. We laugh and talk. We both love the outdoors. With Jade I have been able to walk a little outside or sit on my deck. We both love butterflies. We also both love movie classics. Jade has a beautiful spirit. The more we get to know each other, the more I can see I am learning from her, and she learns from me.”
Gwen went on to say, “Older adults need people to interact with other than family. My family is good to me, but sometimes if I feel sad or lonely, it’s nice to have a friend to talk to. That one-on-one friendship is a blessing. Having Jade in my life is so helpful. I tell other people about the [Senior Visitors] Program all the time. The Lord knows my heart and He knew I needed this program; I needed Jade. My grandson has even noticed the difference in me. He says I am more chatty and cheerful.”
Gwen laughed, “My grandson knows if it is Tuesday, Jade is visiting, and it is a good day!”
To potential community volunteers Jade said, “I would tell anyone thinking of volunteering – without hesitation, do it! When you volunteer, you feel more involved and part of the community. You can learn so much.”
If you know an older adult who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit or if you would like to volunteer to visit an older adult, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org. The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.