Volunteers Needed in Lakes Region: Caring Rides
Every Ride Means the World for Local Seniors
CareGivers, a volunteer-based program helping homebound and disabled seniors remain independent in their homes, is expanding its Caring Rides program to the Lakes Region (Alton and Wolfeboro) - and we need amazing volunteers to help meet the growing demand for our services!
Volunteering is easy - and we offer flexible opportunities built around your schedule, whether you volunteer once a week, once a month, or on an as-needed basis.
Volunteers drive seniors to medical appointments, dental visits, the pharmacy and other vital appointments. Others shop for or run errands on behalf of individuals. Taking a client on a round-trip usually takes an hour of your time - and our only requirements are that you have a car, valid driver's license and a friendly attitude. To sign up, simply fill out the contact form on this page and we will be in touch with next steps!
Why Volunteer? The Need is Growing
For many local seniors, getting to a doctor's appointment or picking up medication at the local pharmacy is a necessity - but sadly, not an option. Many live alone and are unable to drive, with no family or loved ones nearby to help. Affording a taxi or ride service is not a practical option.
Because of these challenges, they may have to cancel vital appointments or not have adequate access to the food they need. They also face growing feels of isolation and loneliness that impact their emotional, mental and physical well-being. That's where YOU can come in.
You Truly Make a Difference in the Life of a Local Senior
For these seniors, our amazing network of volunteers is their lifeline, continually proving that having a big heart can make a priceless impact. While providing a ride to a neighbor in need may seem like a small task, it's significant and life-changing for those we serve:
- You can help increase their overall social connection and levels of independence, helping them realize they truly are never alone.
- You can help them avoid common feelings of isolation and loneliness they are prone to.
- You can ensure they maintain access to medical needs, food and other essentials key to their physical health, emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
- You can help more seniors can age in a dignified manner inside their homes for as long as possible.
Please note these are non-paid volunteer opportunities.
Caring Rides is a service of CareGivers, a program of Catholic Charities NH. In the Lakes Region, we are serving seniors who reside in Alton, Alton Bay, Wolfeboro and Wolfeboro Falls, though volunteers may reside in any surrounding communities (Barnstead, Gilmanton Iron Works, New Durham, Tuftonboro, Ossipee, Strafford and Wakefield).
Note: Caregivers of Southern Carroll County & Vicinity is another volunteer organization which offers transportation to medical appointments for elderly residents of Alton, Wolfeboro, Ossipee and Tuftonboro. If you are a volunteer for that program, we encourage you to remain with them.
Help Your Neighbors in Need
“Having someone give me a ride to the doctor is life-changing. The Caring Rides volunteers not only provide me with the help I can't find elsewhere, they become my friends. Their compassion and kindness count so much when there are few people who truly understand us.”
Judy, Caring Rides client.