Bridge Village will host a second orientation and sign-up event for those interested in volunteering to assist local seniors to remain in their own homes and communities. The meeting will be held at 2:30 pm Friday, June 19 at the Armory in Santa Clara.
Bridge Village is a local non-profit charity organization which has joined the national Village-to-Village organization to establish a local support system for people age 60 and older. Through this association, the local non-profit has access to a web-based program to register volunteers and members, perform background checks, make task assignments and address other organizational management issues.
"The Village-to-Village movement is established in more than 300 communities across the United States," Aimee Jaurequi, Bridge Village Board Chairman explained. "It provides a framework for local organizations to create supportive teams of volunteers who can advocate for and address needs specific to people who choose to age in place."
"Many of us know someone, including within my own family, who left Grant County to obtain the supports necessary to maintain quality of life and safety in their final years," she said. "It is sad to see people have to give up their homes and networks of family and friends to maintain their vitality for life."
"We have identified areas where Bridge Village will establish teams of volunteers to help members with tasks like operating technology, maintaining social connections or simple household chores. Depending on results of initial involvement, we will also explore options for helping with transportation for errands or to appointments,"
"Community interest in forming a Village in Grant County was recognized two years ago when more than 100 area residents showed up for a informational meeting and signed up for our mailing list," Jaurequi said.
"The current non-profit charity organization is an extension of the original Bridge Community which was formed to advocate for establishing a continuum of care living space in Grant County," Jaurequi explained. "Following COVID, we recognized there were more immediate needs in our community which could be addressed by our association through the nationwide Village-to-Village movement."
Jaurequi expressed confidence with the number of people and interest expressed during the first orientation session held last week. "Our board is feeling excited and anxious to get our Village up and running. As soon as we can get our volunteer teams organized, we will be able to launch our program."
Anyone age 18 and over is eligible to volunteer with Bridge Village. Background checks will be conducted on all volunteers through the organization's platform. Those interested in volunteering or becoming involved with Bridge Village are welcome to attend the meeting. Information may also be found at bridgevillage.org or by leaving a message at 575-243-3311.
