She first became involved with Kemptville & District Home Support Inc. (KDHSI) as a client. Because she lives alone and is without a vehicle, she feels isolated in her home and finds it difficult to get around the town and out to her appointments. However, with Assisted Transportation offered through the agency, she is now able to experience community life.
Donalda has been receiving this service for the past eight years and she could not speak more highly of the program. “I have never had a bad experience with a driver. They are very friendly and very helpful. I have made a lot of friends with the drivers,” says Donalda. She also explained how they typically go out of their way to make the experience more exciting. Just recently, on her way to an appointment in Ottawa, her driver changed the route so they would drive by the tulip gardens. She had never been to the Tulip Festival, so it was a very special experience. When she is at the centre, she receives the same kind of care. As a diabetic, sometimes her sugar levels get low. The nurses can tell when she is not well, and give her juice and take her safely home to recuperate.
After having such a positive experience with KDHSI, it only made sense to choose the centre when she was looking for a place to volunteer. As a regular volunteer, she has numerous responsibilities. On Tuesdays, she prepares food for Meals on Wheels. On Wednesdays, she helps with the Wheels to Meals luncheon. At these luncheons, she greets the guests, collects money and sells raffle tickets. In addition to all those jobs, she still finds time to assist with the organization of special events at the centre. This year, she organized the April Fools Luncheon, which was very successful.
Her volunteer commitments at the centre have now become a central aspect of her life. “It fills a void in my life,” says Donalda. “I really enjoy volunteering. It makes my day.” It is the social aspect of volunteering that makes it so rewarding. Donalda is a social butterfly, who loves to chat with all of the seniors and try to make their day as bright and cheerful as possible. She has formed so many new relationships, most of which extend beyond the walls of the centre.
Experiences like Donalda’s are not uncommon. The services offered
through Kemptville & District Home Support Inc. are a vital part
of the community, both for the clients and the volunteers. United Way
takes pride in supporting KDHSI and if you support United Way, you
can be proud too, because you are making a difference.
Photo
- Donalda (right) with Meals on Wheels Driver, John Harley.