Volunteers make a difference...
Jim Panning
shares, "About twelve years ago, I agreed to serve as the St. Mary Magdalen representative to the Board of the Livingston County Catholic Charities. Up to this point in time, I had had very little interaction with the agency, or its services. I served six years on the Board and was exposed to the many fine works they do for those in need in Livingston County. It was very rewarding being a board member and I am appreciative of the opportunity to serve in that capacity. As retirement approached and I would have more time, I looked for a way to become more involved with Catholic Charities and to directly serve the people of the community. I applied to be a driver and 'friendly visitor'.
What an eye-opening and rewarding decision! I began taking people to appointments and grocery shopping, mostly local but occasionally to Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Farmington Hills. I had never realized the need for transportation services for the elderly or infirm. After a while, I began to realize that I was providing much more than “a ride”…I was providing pleasant companionship to people who are alone quite a bit of the time.
I have also been a friendly visitor, spending an hour or two with someone needing a little company or someone whose caregiver needs a bit of a respite. I remember a man I visited regularly who had advanced dementia and his family needed a bit of a break. Every visit we talked, and talked and the conversation never traveled a straight path. When it was time to leave, I couldn’t tell you what we had talked about as much of it would make no sense, but he seemed to enjoy it…and so did I. His wife sent me a note thanking me for the visit, stating that it cheered him up! I still have the note.
I have done well in life, being able to support my family and get my children launched. Now is the time to do 'good'."
If you'd like to learn more about becoming a volunteer, please contact Katie at 517-545-5944.
